Closure Device with Closure Parts Which Can be Placed Against Each Other

ABSTRACT

Provided is a closure device having a first closure part including a body, and a second closure part. The closure parts for closing the closure device are placeable against one another along a closing direction and in a closing position being connected to one another. The closure device has at least one locking element which is disposed so as to be adjustable on the body of the first closure part, and at least one engagement portion which is molded on the second closure part. The at least one locking element and the at least one engagement portion in a closing position are mutually engaged in such a manner that the first closure part and the second closure part are locked to one another. The first closure part has a first magnetic installation and the second closure part has a second magnetic installation.

CROSS-REFERENCE TO RELATED APPLICATIONS

This application is the United States national phase of InternationalApplication No. PCT/EP2020/052455 filed Jan. 31, 2020, and claimspriority to German Patent Application No. 10 2019 201 259.0 filed Jan.31, 2019, the disclosures of which are hereby incorporated by referencein their entirety.

BACKGROUND OF THE INVENTION Field of the Invention

The disclosure relates to a closure device.

Description of Related Art

A closure device of this type comprises a first closure part which has abody, and a second closure part, said closure parts for closing theclosure device being able to be placed against one another along aclosing direction and in a closing position being connected to oneanother. The closure device furthermore has at least one locking elementwhich is disposed so as to be adjustable on the body of the firstclosure part. At least one engagement portion is molded on the secondclosure part. The at least one locking element and the at least oneengagement portion in the closing position are mutually engaged in sucha manner that the first closure part and the second closure part arelocked to one another.

Such a closure device generally serves for connecting two functionalgroups to one another. Such a closure device can be used, for example,on an electronic apparatus, for example a mobile phone or a tabletcomputer, so as to (releasably) fix the electronic apparatus to asuperordinate functional group, for example to a dashboard of a vehicleor the like. Such a closure device can however also be used on abicycle, for example, for fastening an object, for example a drinkingbottle, to a bicycle frame.

Such a closure device in the closing position is to establish a strong,load-bearing connection between the closure parts. The connection hereinis to be releasable in a simple, comfortable manner so as to enable auser to separate the assigned functional groups from one another.

In a closure device known from U.S. Pat. No. 6,182,336, a so-called malepart is to be placed against a so-called female part. A magnet whichwhen plug-connected interacts with a disk-shaped locking element on thefemale part so as to lock the male part and the female part to oneanother in a closing position, is disposed on the male part.

SUMMARY OF THE INVENTION

It is an object underlying the proposed solution to provide a closuredevice which in a closing position establishes a strong, load-bearingconnection between the closure parts, but at the same time is releasablein a simple and comfortable manner.

This object is achieved by a closure device with features as describedherein.

Accordingly, the first closure part has a first magnetic installationand the second closure part has a second magnetic installation. Thefirst magnetic installation and the second magnetic installation whenplacing the first closure part and the second closure part against oneanother mutually interact in a magnetically attracting manner. The atleast one locking element herein is magnetically configured in such amanner that the at least one locking element in the closing position byway of the first magnetic installation and/or the second magneticinstallation is loaded in the direction of engaging with the at leastone engagement portion.

The closure device is thus configured as a magnetic closure device. Amagnetic installation, for example configured in each case by apermanent magnet, or by a permanent magnet on one closure part and by amagnetic armature from a ferromagnetic material on the other closurepart, is in each case disposed on the first closure part and on thesecond closure part. The magnetic installations magnetically interact insuch a manner that, when placing the closure part against one another,the closure parts are pulled toward one another and so as to engage withone another, the closing of the closure device thus being magneticallyassisted.

The magnetic installations herein also serve for establishing thelocking mechanism between the first closure part and the second closurepart in the closing position.

Additionally to the first magnetic installation on the first closurepart and to the second magnetic installation on the second closure part,the at least one locking element is thus magnetically configured, forexample in that the at least one locking element is entirely orpartially made from a ferromagnetic material or is configured so as tobe permanently magnetic, such that the at least one locking elementmagnetically interacts with the first magnetic installation of the firstclosure part and/or the second magnetic installation of the secondclosure part.

The at least one locking element can in particular be configured as apassive armature, for example from a ferromagnetic material, which in amagnetically attracting manner interacts with the magnetic installationof the first closure part and/or of the second closure part that isconfigured as a permanent magnet. Alternatively, the at least onelocking element can also be configured as a permanent magnet and thus soas to be actively magnetic.

Irrespective of whether the at least one locking element is configuredso as to be magnetically active or passive, the at least one lockingelement magnetically interacts with the magnetic installation of thefirst closure part and/or the magnetic installation of the secondclosure part in such a manner that the at least one locking element inthe closing position is loaded with a magnetic attraction force in thedirection of engaging with the at least one engagement portion.

The magnetic interaction herein is in particular of such a type that theat least one locking element in the closing position by virtue of themagnetic interaction is pulled so as to engage with the assignedengagement portion. The at least one locking element of the firstclosure part in the closing position thus engages in the assignedengagement portion on the second closure part such that a lockingmechanism between the first closure part and the second closure part isestablished on account thereof. The locking mechanism is maintained byvirtue of the magnetic interaction such that the closure parts in theclosing position are fixedly connected to one another in a load-bearingmanner.

The locking mechanism can be canceled, counter to the magnetic effect,by acting on the at least one locking element, for example directly orindirectly by way of an assigned adjustment part, such that the closureparts can be separated from one another. On account of the at least onelocking element being disengaged from the assigned engagement portion,the closure parts can thus be released from one another and the closuredevice can be opened.

For example, the at least one locking element of the first closure partin the closing position is magnetically attracted by the second magneticinstallation of the second closure part and is brought to engage withthe engagement portion of the second closure part. By virtue of themagnetic interaction between the magnetic locking element and the secondclosure part, the locking mechanism is established in a self-actingmanner when the closure device is closed, such that the closure parts inthe closing position are fixedly held against one another in aload-bearing manner.

In one embodiment, the first closure part or the second closure part hasan engagement opening into which a, for example peg-shaped, engagementelement of the respective other closure part can be introduced in orderfor the closure device to be closed. One of the closure parts is thusconfigured as a female part (having an engagement opening), while therespective other closure part is designed as a male part (having anengagement element). The at least one locking element can be disposed onthe female part, and the at least one engagement portion can becorrespondingly disposed on the male part. Conversely however, it isalso conceivable for the at least one locking element to be disposed onthe male part, while the at least one engagement portion is molded onthe female part.

In one embodiment, the at least one locking element is adjustable in alinear manner in a plane defined by the closing direction and atransverse direction extending transversely to the closing direction(and transversely to a longitudinal direction along which the at leastone locking element extends in longitudinal terms). Alternatively, theat least one locking element can also be pivoted in the plane defined bythe closing direction and the transverse direction. The at least onelocking element is in each case adjustable on the first closure part soas to in a first position engage in the at least one engagement portionof the second closure part and in the closing position to thus lock theclosure parts to one another. The at least one locking element isadjustable from this first position so as to cancel the lockingmechanism and to be able to thus release the closure parts from oneanother in a simple manner.

The at least one locking element is preferably received in a receptacleopening in the body of the first closure part and is adjustable in thisreceptacle opening. The receptacle opening can provide guiding for theat least one locking element so as to define a linear adjustmentmovement or a pivoting movement of the at least one locking element onthe body of the first closure part.

In one embodiment, the receptacle opening in relation to the closingdirection and in relation to the transverse direction extends obliquelyin such a manner that the at least one locking element in the receptacleopening is adjustable along an adjustment direction which extendsobliquely in relation to the closing direction and obliquely in relationto the transverse direction. In this case, the at least one lockingelement is adjustable in a linear manner on the body of the firstclosure part. The adjustment direction herein extends obliquely inrelation to the closing direction such that the at least one lockingelement can be brought to engage with or disengage from the at least oneengagement portion obliquely in relation to the closing direction.

The oblique alignment of the receptacle opening can be such that the atleast one locking element can yield in a self-acting manner in thereceptacle opening when the closure parts are placed against oneanother. When the engagement element of the second closure part acts onthe at least one locking element, the at least one locking element inthe receptacle opening that is inclined so as to be oblique in relationto the closing direction can thus be displaced such that the engagementelement is moved along the at least one locking element and the at leastone locking element can be brought to engage with the at least oneengagement portion on the engagement element.

If the at least one locking element is pivotable on the body of thefirst closure part, the pivoting direction is thus preferably directedalong the transverse direction. The at least one locking element ispivotable about the pivot axle so as to bring the locking element toengage with or disengage from the at least one engagement portion.

In one embodiment, the engagement portion has a first ramp which extendsobliquely in relation to the closing direction, extends in a rectilinearmanner, or is curved, and the first closure part in the region of thereceptacle opening has a second ramp which extends obliquely in relationto the closing direction, extends in a rectilinear manner, or is curved.The at least one locking element in the closing position is disposedbetween the first ramp and the second ramp such that a locking mechanismbetween the first closure part and the second closure part isestablished herewith.

The locking mechanism between the first closure part and the secondclosure part, in particular along the closing direction, acts in such amanner that the first closure part and the second closure part are heldagainst one another along the closing direction and are thus not readilyreleasable from one another along the closing direction, at least notwithout releasing the locking mechanism. If the closure parts aremutually loaded along the closing direction, forces are introduced intothe at least one locking element by way of the ramps, wherein the mutualangular position of the ramps determines the strength and robustness ofthe locking mechanism.

In a first embodiment, the first ramp and the second ramp in the planedefined by the closing direction and the transverse direction extend soas to be mutually parallel. This has the effect that, when the closureparts are mutually loaded in the closing position, the at least onelocking element is jammed between planes that are directed so as to bemutually parallel and thus establishes a locking mechanism between theclosure parts. The closure parts under load can move relative to oneanother with a certain degree of play. It is conceivable that thelocking mechanism releases in a self-acting manner when a limit force isexceeded, and the closure parts can thus be separated from one another(for example, when the engagement element on account of play between theengagement element and the engagement opening tilts under load, and theramps are no longer aligned so as to be exactly mutually parallel).

In an alternative embodiment, the angle between the ramps can be greaterthan zero. The ramps in the plane defined by the closing direction andthe transverse direction thus form a mutual angle which is greater thanzero, wherein in the case of a curved ramp the angle in relation to atangent to the ramp is to be measured. This is to be understood suchthat the available width between the ramps widens toward the outside,thus away from the engagement portion, the ramps thus assuming a wedgeshape which widens toward the outside. Such an angular mutual disposalof the ramps has the effect that the closure parts in the closingposition are mutually held in a manner that is at least almost free ofplay. For example, if vibration forces act between the closure parts,this has the effect that the at least one locking element is pulled soas to engage more deeply in the at least one engagement portion, so thatthe closure parts are pressed so as to mutually engage without play. Theclosure parts herein can release from one another in a self-actingmanner when a specific limit force is exceeded, while canceling thelocking mechanism in a self-acting manner.

In yet another alternative embodiment, the angle between the ramps issmaller than zero, wherein in the case of a curved ramp the angle inrelation to a tangent to the ramp is to be measured. The ramps in theplane defined by the closing direction and the transverse direction thusform such a mutual angle that the available width between the rampsdecreases toward the outside, thus away from the at least one engagementportion. The ramps thus assume a wedge shape which tapers toward theoutside. An angular mutual disposal of the ramps of this type has theeffect that the connection between the closure parts in the closingposition is self-securing. Under load between the closure parts, the atleast one locking element is wedged between the ramps in such a mannerthat the at least one locking element is loaded so as to engage moredeeply in the at least one engagement portion, the connection betweenthe at least one locking element and the engagement portion thus beingstabilized. A certain degree of play can arise between the closure partsunder load.

In one embodiment one of the ramps has a first portion which at an angleof greater than zero in relation to the respective other ramp isdisposed in the plane defined by the closing direction and thetransverse direction, and moreover a second portion which at an angle ofsmaller than zero in relation to the respective other ramp is disposedin the plane defined by the closing direction and the transversedirection. For example, the ramp of the first closure part can have suchdifferent portions. It is however also conceivable for the ramp to havesuch different portions on the engagement portion of the second closurepart.

It can be achieved on account of the different portions of the ramp thatthe closure device in the closing position is substantially without playand the first closure part and the second closure part can thus be heldagainst one another substantially without play, on the one hand. Inparticular, the first closure part and the second closure part in thestate without load or a little load can be mutually disposed such thatthe locking element is disposed between the first portion of the oneramp and the other ramp, the locking element thus being situated in aregion between the ramps in which the ramps are mutually disposed in themanner of a wedge that widens towards the outside.

If a load which exceeds a limit force, for example, acts between theclosure parts, the locking element can thus make its way out of theregion between the first portion of the one ramp and the other ramp andthus be displaced between the ramps such that the locking element ishenceforth held between the second portion of the one ramp and the otherramp, for example. By virtue of the disposal of the second portion ofthe one ramp and the other ramp at a negative angle, thus in the mannerof a wedge that tapers toward the outside, it is achieved that thelocking mechanism between the closure parts is self-reinforcing underfurther load. Under heavy load between the closure parts, the lockingelement is loaded in the direction of engaging with the engagementportion of the second closure part such that that a self-acting releaseof the locking mechanism cannot arise.

On account of such different portions being provided on the assignedramp, a mutual disposal of the closure parts without play can beachieved, on the one hand, as well as a reliable, self-reinforcingconnection which is not releasable in a self-acting manner even underheavy load, on the other hand.

The first ramp and/or the second ramp in the preceding embodiments canextend in a curved or rectilinear manner in the plane defined by theclosing direction and the transverse direction. If the ramp isconfigured so as to be curved, the tangent at least at one point of theramp is directed obliquely at an angle in relation to the closingdirection.

The first ramp and/or the second ramp can in particular be curved by wayof a uniform, constant curvature radius or by way of a variablecurvature radius.

If the first ramp and/or the second ramp have/has different portions,the portions may extend so as to be curved or rectilinear. For example,the first portion and the second portion of a ramp can in each case becurved, wherein a tangent on the first portion is oriented obliquely insuch a manner that said tangent is disposed at an angle of greater thanzero in relation to the other ramp, while a tangent on the secondportion is oriented obliquely in such a manner that said tangent extendsat an angle of smaller than zero in relation to the other ramp.

The different portions can also be mutually adjoining portions of acurved face, in particular of a circular path.

A ramp can have portions which extend in a curved and rectilinearmanner, said portions adjoining one another and optionally beingdifferently directed.

In one embodiment, the at least one locking element in longitudinalterms extends perpendicularly to the plane defined by the closingdirection and the transverse direction. For example, the locking elementcan be configured so as to be pin-shaped (having a cylindrical shapealong a longitudinal direction perpendicular to the closing directionand to the transverse direction). The at least one locking element inthe closing position engages with the assigned engagement portion. Inorder for the closure parts to be released from one another, the atleast one locking element in the assigned receptacle opening can bemoved obliquely to the closing direction on the body of the firstclosure part, so as to bring the at least one locking element todisengage from the assigned engagement portion.

Alternatively, the at least one locking element can be configured so asto be annular, wherein the at least one locking element in this caseextends circumferentially about the closing direction and herein iscircumferentially closed or in circumferential terms opened in one place(i.e. configured as an opened ring). The at least one locking element inthe closing position engages with an engagement portion which is moldedin an encircling manner about the closing direction on an engagementelement of the second closure part, for example. In order for the mutualconnection of the closure parts to be released, the at least one lockingelement can be adjusted, for example in that the radius of the annularlocking element is widened and the locking element is thus brought todisengage from the assigned engagement portion of the second closurepart. The locking element in this case is thus advantageously configuredso as to be elastic at least in portions.

The adjustment of the at least one locking element for canceling thelocking mechanism can take place manually by acting directly on the atleast one locking element. The at least one locking element can thus bemanually moved, counter to the magnetic force of the second magneticinstallation of the second closure part, for example in the assignedreceptacle opening of the first closure part, so as to in this way bringthe at least one locking element to disengage from the engagementportion of the second closure part.

In contrast, the closure device in one embodiment has an adjustment partwhich serves for acting on and adjusting the at least one lockingelement. The adjustment part is activatable in an activation directionso as to bring the at least one locking element to disengage from the atleast one engagement portion in order to release the first closure partand the second closure part from one another. A user can thus act on theadjustment part so as to act on the at least one locking element byactivating the adjustment part and disengage said locking element fromthe at least one engagement portion so as to in this way be able toseparate the closure parts from one another in a simple and comfortablemanner.

For example, the adjustment part can be disposed so as to be adjustableon the first closure part. However, the adjustment part can also beconfigured so as to be adjustable on the second closure part or as anelement which is separate from the closure parts. In the latter case,the adjustment part is adjustable in relation to both closure parts butherein not (directly) guided on the closure parts.

The adjustment part in relation to the body of the first closure partcan be moved transversely to the closing direction or along the closingdirection. Accordingly, the activation direction is directedtransversely to the closing direction or along the closing direction. Inprinciple however, other alignments of the activation direction are alsoconceivable and possible.

If the adjustment part is to be adjusted along the closing direction,the adjustment part can act on ends of the at least one locking element,for example, so as to move the at least one locking element in thereceptacle opening of the first closure part that extends obliquely tothe closing direction, for example by adjusting the adjustment partalong the closing direction, and on account thereof to bring said atleast one locking element to disengage from the at least one engagementportion of the second closure part. By adjusting the adjustment part,the at least one locking element in the receptacle opening is thus movedin the plane defined by the closing direction and the transversedirection, and on account thereof is brought to disengage from the atleast one engagement portion of the second closure part.

If the adjustment part is to be adjusted transversely to the closingdirection, the at least one locking element can be brought to disengagefrom the at least one engagement portion perpendicularly to the planedefined by the closing direction and the transverse direction byadjusting the adjustment part. In this case, the at least one lockingelement for canceling the locking mechanism is thus not moved in theplane defined by the closing direction and the transverse direction butperpendicularly to said plane.

In one embodiment, the adjustment part can also be pivotable in relationto the body of the first closure part and thus be moved by pivoting soas to bring the at least one locking element to disengage from theengagement portion of the second closure part.

The adjustment part can mechanically act on the at least one lockingelement so as to bring the at least one locking element to disengagefrom the assigned engagement portion when the adjustment part isactivated. Alternatively, the adjustment part can also cause anadjustment of the first and/or the second magnetic installation suchthat the magnetic forces acting on the at least one locking element arevaried and the at least one locking element is magnetically pulled so asto disengage from the assigned engagement portion. In this case, the atleast one locking element is thus not mechanically adjusted but isbrought to disengage from the engagement portion by a magnetic effectwhen the adjustment part is activated.

Alternatively, the adjustment part can also be brought to disengage by amechanical or magnetic effect of a body that is independent of the twoclosure parts but not directly connected thereto. Such a functionalgroup may be characterized as a mechanical transistor in which a thirdelement “switches” the two primary closure parts. For example, the firstclosure part can be configured conjointly with an end of a guide rod,for example a rod for running elements of a curtain, and the firstclosure part can be able to be placed against a second closure part thatis disposed on a wall or a ceiling. When a curtain which is attached toa plurality of running elements on the rod is now displaced, and therunning element that is closest to the first closure part mechanicallyacts on the locking element and brings the latter to disengage, thecurtain rod can be removed. A running element which contains a magnetcan cause a magnetic adjustment when moving close to the first closurepart, as long as the magnetic force, arrangement and polarization aresuitably dimensioned in relation to the magnets in the first and secondclosure part. For example, bringing the locking element to disengage canbe caused in that a magnet disposed in a running element issignificantly stronger than a magnet disposed in the first closure part.The magnet disposed in the running element can also have the effect thatthe running element is magnetically pulled towards the first closurepart. Such an arrangement is of course not limited to the arrangement ofa curtain but can be scaled up or down so as to be used in amultiplicity of applications.

In one embodiment, the closure part, counter to the activationdirection, is spring-preloaded toward a portion of the first closurepart. Upon activating the adjustment part in the activation direction,the adjustment part, by virtue of being spring-preloaded, is reset to aninitial position in a self-acting manner.

In one embodiment, the first magnetic installation of the first closurepart is disposed on the adjustment part and adjustable conjointly withthe adjustment part. In consequence, the magnetic attraction forcesbetween the first closure part and the second closure part are alsoinfluenced, in particular weakened, by adjusting the adjustment part,such that not only the locking mechanism is released, but also themagnetic adhesion between the closure parts is weakened, and potentiallyeven reversed to a repulsion, on account of the adjustment part beingactivated. This can further assist in releasing the closure parts fromone another.

If the adjustment part is disposed so as to be adjustable along theclosing direction on the body of the first closure part, on account ofthe adjustment part being activated, the first magnetic installation iscorrespondingly removed in the closing direction away from the secondclosure part and the second magnetic installation disposed on thelatter. If the adjustment part is adjustable transversely to the closingdirection and thus perpendicularly to the plane defined by the closingdirection and the transverse direction, the first magnetic installation,when adjusting the adjustment part, is removed transversely to theclosing direction away from the second closure part and the secondmagnetic installation disposed on the latter.

In one embodiment, a user acts directly on the adjustment part so as toactivate the adjustment part and, on account thereof, to be able tocancel the locking mechanism between the closure parts and to thus beable to release the closure parts from one another.

In another embodiment, the first closure part, additionally to theadjustment part, can have at least one effective element which inrelation to the adjustment part is adjustable along an effectivedirection, different from the activation direction, and is operativelyconnected to the adjustment element in such a manner that adjusting theeffective element in the effective direction causes the adjustment partto be activated in the activation direction.

In this case, a user acts on the effective element in order for theadjustment part to be activated. For example, the effective element canbe coupled to the adjustment element in a force-deflecting manner, forexample by way of oblique planes which are mounted so as to slide on oneanother, such that an adjustment of the effective element along theeffective direction leads to the adjustment part being adjusted alongthe activation direction. The effective direction can be directedtransversely to the closing direction, for example, while the activationdirection along which the adjustment part is to be moved is directedalong the closing direction. A user can depress the effective element,for example, so as to hereby activate the adjustment part along theactivation direction and to thus cancel the locking mechanism betweenthe closure parts by acting on the at least one locking element.

In one embodiment, the effective element, counter to the effectivedirection, is spring-preloaded toward a portion of the first closurepart. When a user no longer acts on the effective element, the effectiveelement by virtue of the spring-preloading acting between the effectiveelement and the portion of the first closure part is thus reset to aninitial position in a self-acting manner.

Additionally or alternatively to the adjustment part on the firstclosure part, an adjustment part can also be disposed on the secondclosure part. The second magnetic installation can be disposed on theadjustment part of the second closure part, for example, such that thesecond magnetic installation is adjusted by adjusting the adjustmentpart and a magnetic force acting on the at least one locking element canbe varied on account thereof.

In one embodiment, the first closure part has a rocker element which inrelation to the body of the first closure part is pivotable about apivot axle, and is able to be moved by the adjustment part so as toadjust the at least one locking element. For example, the adjustmentpart herein can be moved in a linear manner on the body of the firstclosure part, for example by displacing the adjustment part transverselyto the closing direction and relative to the body of the first closurepart. The rocker element is pivoted by activating the adjustment partand thus acts on the at least one locking element so as to unlock thelocking element and thus to bring the latter to disengage from theengagement portion of the second closure part.

However, the adjustment part can also be pivotable conjointly with therocker element, and in this case can be configured so as to be integralto the rocker element and in one piece with the latter, for example.

The pivot axle of the rocker element can be directed so as to beparallel to the axis of longitudinal extent of the locking element, forexample. If the locking element is configured as a elongate bar, forexample, the rocker element in relation to the body of the first closurepart is adjustable about a pivot axle which is directed so as to beparallel to the bar of the locking element, for example.

In one embodiment, the rocker element has an activation portion foracting on the at least one locking element. The rocker element herein ispivotable in relation to the body of the first closure part so as tobring the at least one locking element to disengage from the at leastone engagement portion in order to release the first closure part andthe second closure part from one another. The rocker element by way ofthe activation portion acts on the at least one locking element so as tomove the locking element relative to the engagement portion of thesecond closure part and thus to unlock the connection between theclosure parts when activating the rocker element.

The adjustment part can be manually moved. A user can thus act on theadjustment part so as to activate the adjustment part and, on accountthereof, unlock the at least one locking element, for example.

In one embodiment however, it is also conceivable for the adjustmentpart to be activated in a self-acting manner, for example by a movementof the closure parts relative to one another. For example, the secondclosure part can thus be displaceable in a linear manner on the firstclosure part, for example in an engagement opening into which the secondclosure part by way of the engagement portion is able to be plugged inin order to connect to the first closure part. The displacement movementof the second closure part relative to the first closure part can bedirected transversely to the closing direction, wherein the magneticattraction force between the second closure part and the adjustment partmay be reversed on account of the second closure part being displacedrelative to the first closure part, such that the adjustment part isactivated for releasing the locking mechanism.

Such a reversal of the magnetic effect in an arrangement of a pluralityof magnetic poles on the adjustment part can be effected in that thesecond closure part and the adjustment part are moved close to oneanother by way of identical poles. A reversal of the magnetic effect canhowever also be effected when a (single) magnetic element which by wayof only one magnetic pole points toward the second closure part isdisposed on the adjustment part. When displacing the second closure partrelative to the adjustment part a so-called edge effect can arise inwhich the magnetic effect is reversed from attraction to repulsion whena magnetic element of the second closure part is moved tangentially tothe magnetic element of the adjustment part and thus shears away fromthe magnetic element of the adjustment part.

Alternatively, the second closure part can also mechanically act on theadjustment part so as to mechanically activate the adjustment part andto thus unlock the element.

In another embodiment, the second closure part may be able to movetransversely to the closing direction on the first closure part, whereinthe at least one locking element is able to be moved from the closingposition by moving the second closure part relative to the first closurepart. In this case, an adjustment part is not necessarily required. Thesecond closure part during a displacement movement can act mechanicallyor magnetically on the at least one locking element, for example, so asto adjust the locking element from the closing position and to thusunlock the closure device. A mechanical interaction can be caused inthat, for example, the second closure part when displaced interacts withthe at least one locking element by way of an inclined plane. Magneticinteraction can thereby take place in that, for example, a magneticattraction force acting on the at least one locking element in thedirection of an engagement with the engagement portion is reversed to amagnetic repulsion, for example in that portions of dissimilarmagnetization, for example a plurality of magnetic poles or elsemagnetic and non-magnetic portions, are disposed on the at least onelocking element.

The first closure part can have only one locking element, for example.In one embodiment however, the first closure part has two (or more)locking elements. If two locking elements are provided on the firstclosure part, the locking elements are disposed on both sides of anengagement opening which is molded on the first closure part, forexample, and can thus interact with the engagement element of the secondclosure part and engagement portions molded thereon on both sides, so asto establish a locking mechanism on both sides in the closing position.

In one embodiment, the second closure part is designed as a rigidelement having a base and a rigid engagement element in the manner of apeg which for engaging in an assigned engagement opening of the firstclosure part is integrally molded on the base. In one embodiment, thesecond magnetic installation of the second closure part can be disposedon the engagement element such that the first closure part and thesecond closure part, upon engagement of the engagement element with theengagement opening, interact in a magnetically attracting manner and arepulled so as to mutually engage in a self-acting manner. One or aplurality of engagement portions herein can be molded on the engagementelement of the second closure part such that one or a plurality oflocking elements of the first closure part in the closing position ofthe closure device engage in a locking manner with the second closurepart.

In another embodiment, the at least one engagement portion is disposedso as to be able to move on the base. In this case, the engagementportion is not molded so as to be rigid in relation to the base of thesecond closure part, but is able to be elastically deflected in relationto the base, such that the locking mechanism between the closure partscan be released by deflecting the at least one engagement portion.

The closure part has a blocking piece which is adjustable in relation tothe base, for example. The position of the engagement portion inrelation to the base in the closing position is blocked by way of theblocking piece such that the locking mechanism between the closure partsis secured. Accordingly, the blocking piece in a blocking position isoriented in relation to the at least one engagement portion such thatthe at least one engagement portion cannot be brought to disengage fromthe at least one locking element. The blocking piece is adjustable fromthe blocking position so as to enable an elastic deflection of the atleast one engagement portion such that the locking mechanism between theclosure parts can be canceled by deforming the engagement portion.

In one embodiment, the second magnetic installation which is assigned tothe second closure part is disposed on the blocking piece and thus ableto be moved conjointly with the blocking piece. When the blocking pieceis activated, the magnetic interaction between the closure parts is thusalso influenced, in particular for weakening the magnetic attractionforces between the closure parts such that the retrieval of the closureparts is further simplified on account thereof.

Additionally or alternatively to adjusting the at least one lockingelement, the locking mechanism can be canceled by providing an elasticengagement portion and an activatable blocking piece. A furtherpossibility for releasing the locking mechanism between the closureparts and thus for opening the closure device is thus achieved.

In one embodiment, the first closure part has at least one firstelectrical connector which in the closing position of the closure deviceis electrically connected to a second electrical connector, wherein theelectrical connection can be canceled by separating the closure partsfrom one another. The second electrical connector herein can be likewiseprovided on the first closure part or else on the second closure part.Electrical contacting between electrical connectors can thus beestablished by connecting the closure parts. This can be used, forexample, for providing an electrical connector for an electronicapparatus, for example a mobile phone, for example in order for theelectronic apparatus to be connected to a charging installation.

In one embodiment, the first electrical connector is electricallyconnected to the at least one locking element. For example, the secondelectrical connector herein can be connected to an electrical contactelement which is disposed in the region of the engagement portion on thesecond closure part. The at least one locking element, and on accountthereof the first electrical connector, in the closing position is incontact with the electrical contact element on the engagement portion ofthe second closure part such that an electrical connection between theelectrical connectors is established on account thereof. This electricalconnection can be canceled by separating the closure parts such that theelectrical contact is able to be released. In this embodiment, theelectrical connection is established only in the engagement position ofthe locking element. Should the closure be in a malposition, for examplebecause dirt between the closure parts precludes the latter tocompletely converge, the electrical connection would not be establishedand the malposition thus would be able to be electrically detected.

This applies in a similar manner to a embodiment in which bothelectrical connectors lie in the first closure part and in the closingposition are electrically connected via the locking element which atleast in portions is composed of a conductive material.

In one embodiment, the closure device has at least two second closureparts which have in each case at least one engagement portion and onesecond magnetic installation and which can be conjointly placed againstthe first closure part. The closure device can thus achieve athree-point connection (between a first closure part and two secondclosure parts) or else a multi-point connection (between a first closurepart and more than two second closure parts), for example in order forstraps to be connected to one another. Such a closure device can beused, for example, as a strap system on a seat, in particular a vehicleseat, for example a child seat, or else on a pram.

In one advantageous embodiment herein, the magnetic installations in thefirst closure part and in the plurality of second closure parts and thelocking element (in terms of the disposal and freedom of movementthereof) can be mutually adapted such that the locking element whenplacing a second closure part against the first closure part is imparteda stronger magnetic attraction to the magnetic installation of the firstclosure part, thus is not yet pulled into the engagement position.However, when the second, or the last (in the case of a multiplicity ofsecond closure parts) of the second closure parts is inserted, themagnetic force of the second closure parts on the locking element ispredominant such that the locking element is pulled so as to engage.This is in particular advantageous in pram closures in which nationalstandards in some countries demand that the closure must not latch aslong as not all parts of the multi-point closure are locked.

In such a closure device an engagement opening on the first closure partis provided such that a plurality of second closure parts can beconjointly inserted into the engagement opening of the first closurepart. The closure device herein can be designed such that the pluralityof second closure parts can only be brought to conjointly connect withthe first closure part. It is however also conceivable and possible thateach second closure part can be individually connected to the firstclosure part and a connection between the closure parts can thus also beestablished by selectively choosing among the second closure parts.

A second closure part can also be inserted and magnetically positionedbut not yet mechanically latched until a further second closure part is(or all of the second closure parts are) inserted.

In one embodiment, a functional group has an electronic apparatus, forexample configured by a mobile phone, a tablet computer or anothercommunications terminal, and a closure device of the type describedabove. One of the closure parts of the closure device herein isconnected to the electronic apparatus, while the other closure part isdisposed on a superordinate functional group to which the electronicapparatus is to be fastened. In this way, an electronic apparatus can befastened in or on a vehicle, for example, a motor vehicle or a bicycle,for example. For example, a mobile phone can be established on adashboard of a vehicle or on a handlebar or a frame of a bicycle by wayof such a closure device.

A closure system has a plurality of closure devices of the typedescribed above. In the context of such a closure system, the firstclosure parts of the closure device can be connected to one another in afirst functional group, while the second closure parts of the closuredevice are connected to one another in a second functional group. Thefirst functional group and the second functional group can be placedagainst one another in that the closure devices are in each case closedsuch that the first functional group and the second functional group areheld against one another by way of the plurality of closure devices.

In one embodiment, the first closure parts of the closure devices hereincan in each case have an adjustment part for adjusting the at least onelocking element of each closure device. The adjustment part of eachclosure device is activatable so as to bring the at least one lockingelement of the respectively assigned first closure part to disengagefrom the at least one engagement portion of the assigned second closurepart in order to release the first closure part and an assigned secondclosure part from one another. The adjustment parts of the first closureparts of the closure devices are preferably operatively connected to oneanother such that the adjustment parts can be conjointly activated.

In the context of such a closure system, the closure devices can belinearly next to one another in a row, for example. The first closureparts and the second closure parts herein can in each case be rigidlyconnected to one another by way of connection portions. The adjustmentparts of the closure devices can be likewise rigidly connected to oneanother such that the adjustment parts can be conjointly adjusted foractivating the locking elements of the closure devices.

The adjustment parts herein may be simultaneously activated. Theoperative connection between the closure parts can however also be suchof such a type that the adjustment parts in a temporally offset mannerare adjusted one after the other, and the closure devices are thus notopened simultaneously but in a temporally offset manner.

It is to be noted in this context that the closure parts do notnecessarily have to be connected to one another. It is also conceivablefor the adjustment parts to be activated individually and independentlyof one another such that the closure devices of the closure system canbe opened individually and independently of one another.

BRIEF DESCRIPTION OF THE DRAWINGS

The concept on which the proposed solution is based is to be explainedin more detail hereunder by the exemplary embodiments illustrated in thefigures.

FIG. 1A shows a view of a first exemplary embodiment of a closuredevice, having a first closure part and a second closure part, in anopened position;

FIG. 1B shows a lateral view of the assembly according to FIG. 1A;

FIG. 10 shows a sectional view along the line A-A according to FIG. 1B;

FIG. 1D shows a sectional view along the line B-B according to FIG. 1B;

FIGS. 2A-D show views of the closure device in a closing position;

FIGS. 3A-D show views of the closure device when the closure parts areloaded toward one another;

FIGS. 4A-D show views of the closure device when unlocking;

FIGS. 5A-D show views of the closure device upon opening;

FIG. 6 shows a view of another exemplary embodiment of a closure device;

FIG. 7 shows a lateral view of the assembly according to FIG. 6;

FIGS. 8A-C show views of the closure device according to FIGS. 6 and 7,sectioned along the line O-O according to FIG. 7, in a first embodiment;

FIGS. 9A-D show views of the closure device in a modified embodiment,again sectioned along the line O-O according to FIG. 7;

FIGS. 10-14 show views of exemplary embodiments of closure deviceshaving different magnetic installations which are disposed on theclosure parts;

FIG. 15A shows an exploded view of another exemplary embodiment of aclosure device;

FIG. 15B shows an assembled view of the closure device according to FIG.15A;

FIG. 16A shows an exploded view of yet another exemplary embodiment of aclosure device;

FIG. 16B shows an assembled view of the closure device;

FIG. 17A shows an exploded view of yet another exemplary embodiment of aclosure device;

FIG. 17B shows an assembled view of the closure device;

FIG. 18A shows an exploded view of yet another exemplary embodiment of aclosure device;

FIG. 18B shows an assembled view of the closure device;

FIGS. 19A-F show views of a closure device having a first closure partand two second closure parts which for providing a three-pointconnection are to be placed against said first closure part;

FIGS. 20A-E show other views of the closure device according to FIGS.19A-F;

FIG. 21 shows a view of another exemplary embodiment of a closuredevice;

FIG. 22 shows a lateral view of the closure device according to FIG. 21;

FIGS. 23A-C show a sectional view along the line A-A according to FIG.22;

FIG. 23D shows an enlarged detail of the sectional view according toFIG. 23C;

FIG. 24 shows a view of another exemplary embodiment of a closuredevice;

FIG. 25 shows a lateral view of the closure device according to FIG. 24;

FIGS. 26A-C show a sectional view along the line K-K according to FIG.25;

FIG. 27 shows a view of another exemplary embodiment of a closuredevice;

FIG. 28 shows a lateral view of the closure device according to FIG. 27;

FIGS. 29A-C show sectional views along the line M-M according to FIG.28;

FIGS. 30A-C show views of yet another exemplary embodiment of a closuredevice in an opened position;

FIGS. 31A-C show views of the closure device in a closing position;

FIGS. 32A-C show views of the closure device when unlocking;

FIGS. 33A-C show views of the closure device upon opening;

FIGS. 34A-E show views of yet another exemplary embodiment of a closuredevice in an opened position;

FIGS. 35A-E show views of the closure device in a closing position;

FIGS. 36A-E show views of the closure device when unlocking;

FIGS. 37A-E show views of the closure device upon opening;

FIGS. 38A-D show views of yet another exemplary embodiment of a closuredevice in an opened position;

FIGS. 39A-D show views of the closure device in a closing position;

FIGS. 40A-D show views of the closure device when unlocking;

FIGS. 41A-D show views of the closure device upon opening;

FIG. 42 shows an exploded view of yet another exemplary embodiment of aclosure device;

FIGS. 43A-C show views of the closure device in an opened position;

FIGS. 44A-C show views of the closure device in a closing position;

FIGS. 45A-C show views of the closure device when unlocking;

FIGS. 46A-C show views of the closure device upon opening;

FIGS. 47A-E show views of an exemplary embodiment of the closure systemhaving a plurality of closure devices in an opened position;

FIGS. 48A-E show views of the closure system in a closing position;

FIGS. 49A-E show views of the closure system when unlocking;

FIGS. 50A-E show views of the closure system upon opening;

FIGS. 51A-E show views of another exemplary embodiment of the closuresystem having a plurality of closure devices in an opened position;

FIGS. 52A-E show views of the closure system in a closing position;

FIGS. 53A-E show views of the closure system when unlocking the closuredevices;

FIGS. 54A-E show views of the closure device upon opening the closuredevices;

FIGS. 55A-D show views of an exemplary embodiment of a closure devicehaving a first closure part and a plurality of second closure parts inan opened position;

FIGS. 56A-D show views of the closure device in a state in which asecond closure part is placed against the first closure part;

FIGS. 57A-D show views of the closure device in a state in which twosecond closure parts are placed against the first closure part;

FIGS. 58A-D show views of the closure device in a state in which threesecond closure parts are placed against the first closure part;

FIGS. 59A-D show views of the closure device upon opening;

FIGS. 60A, 60B show views of another exemplary embodiment of a closuredevice, having a blocking piece which is disposed on the second closurepart, in an opened position;

FIGS. 61A, 61B show views of the closure device when closing;

FIGS. 62A, 62B show views of the closure device in a closing position;

FIGS. 63A, 63B show views of the closure device when activating theblocking piece;

FIGS. 64A, 64B show views of the closure device when opening;

FIGS. 65A, 65B show views of yet another exemplary embodiment of aclosure device in an opened position;

FIGS. 66A, 66B show views of the closure device when closing;

FIGS. 67A, 67B show views of the closure device in a closing position;

FIGS. 68A, 68B show views of the closure device when opening;

FIGS. 69A, 69B show views of the closure device when being furtheropened;

FIGS. 70A, 70B show views of an exemplary embodiment of the closuredevice having electrical connectors, in an opened position of theclosure device;

FIGS. 71A, 71B show views of the closure device according to FIGS. 70A,70B in a closing position;

FIGS. 72A, 72B show views of the closure device having electricalconnectors in an opened position;

FIGS. 73A, 73B show views of the closure device according to FIGS. 72A,72B in a closing position;

FIGS. 74A, 74B show views of another exemplary embodiment of a closuredevice having electrical connectors in an opened position;

FIGS. 75A, 75B show views of the closure device according to FIGS. 74A,74B in a closing position;

FIGS. 76A, 76B show views of yet another exemplary embodiment of aclosure device in an opened position;

FIGS. 77A, 77B show views of the closure device when closing;

FIGS. 78A, 78B show views of the closure device when being furtherclosed;

FIGS. 79A, 79B show views of the closure device in a closing position;

FIGS. 80A, 80B show views of the closure device when unlocking;

FIGS. 81A, 81B show views of the closure device upon opening;

FIGS. 82A, 82B show views of yet another exemplary embodiment of theclosure device in a closing position;

FIGS. 83A, 83B show views of the closure device when unlocking;

FIGS. 84A, 84B show views of the closure device upon opening;

FIG. 85A shows a schematic view of a further exemplary embodiment of theclosure device in a closing position;

FIG. 85B shows a view of the closure device in an unlocked position;

FIG. 86 shows a view of yet another exemplary embodiment of a closuredevice;

FIG. 87 shows an exploded view of another exemplary embodiment of aclosure device;

FIG. 88 shows another exploded view of the closure device;

FIG. 89A shows a lateral view of an end side of the closure device in anopened position;

FIG. 89B shows a sectional view along the line A-A according to FIG.89A;

FIG. 89C shows a view of the longitudinal side of the closure device inthe opened position;

FIG. 89D shows a sectional view along the line C-C according to FIG.89C;

FIG. 89E shows a sectional view along the line B-B according to FIG.89C;

FIG. 90A shows a lateral view of an end side of the closure device in aclosed position;

FIG. 90B shows a sectional view along the line A-A according to FIG.90A;

FIG. 90C shows a view of the longitudinal side of the closure device inthe closed position;

FIG. 90D shows a sectional view along the line C-C according to FIG.90C;

FIG. 90E shows a sectional view along the line B-B according to FIG.90C;

FIG. 91A shows a lateral view of an end side of the closure device in anopening movement with the closure device not under any load;

FIG. 91B shows a sectional view along the line A-A according to FIG.91A;

FIG. 91C shows a view of the longitudinal side of the closure device inthe opening movement;

FIG. 91D shows a sectional view along the line C-C according to FIG.91C;

FIG. 91E shows a sectional view along the line B-B according to FIG.91C;

FIG. 92A shows a lateral view of an end side of the closure device in anopening movement with the closure device not being under any load;

FIG. 92B shows a sectional view along the line A-A according to FIG.92A;

FIG. 92C shows a view of the longitudinal side of the closure device inthe opening movement;

FIG. 92D shows a sectional view along the line C-C according to FIG.92C;

FIG. 92E shows a sectional view along the line B-B according to FIG.92C;

FIG. 93A shows a lateral view of an end side of the closure device in anopened position;

FIG. 93B shows a sectional view along the line A-A according to FIG.93A;

FIG. 93C shows a view of the longitudinal side of the closure device inthe opened position;

FIG. 93D shows a sectional view along the line C-C according to FIG.93C;

FIG. 93E shows a sectional view along the line B-B according to FIG.93C;

FIG. 94A shows an exploded view of another exemplary embodiment of aclosure device;

FIG. 94B shows another exploded view of the closure device;

FIG. 95A shows a view of the closure device in a closed position;

FIG. 95B shows a view of the longitudinal side of the closure device inthe closed position;

FIG. 95C shows a sectional view along the line A-A according to FIG.95B;

FIG. 95D shows a lateral view of an end side of the closure device inthe closed position;

FIG. 96A shows a view of the closure device in an opening movement of anadjustment part;

FIG. 96B shows a view of the longitudinal side of the closure device;

FIG. 96C shows a sectional view along the line A-A according to FIG.96B;

FIG. 96D shows a lateral view of an end side of the closure device;

FIG. 97A shows a view of the closure device when opening;

FIG. 97B shows a view of the longitudinal side of the closure device;

FIG. 97C shows a sectional view along the line A-A according to FIG.97B;

FIG. 97D shows a lateral view of an end side of the closure device;

FIG. 98A shows a view of the closure device when resetting theadjustment part;

FIG. 98B shows a view of the longitudinal side of the closure device;

FIG. 98C shows a sectional view along the line A-A according to FIG.98B;

FIG. 98D shows a lateral view of an end side of the closure device;

FIG. 99A shows a view of the closure device when being closed again;

FIG. 99B shows a view of the longitudinal side of the closure device;

FIG. 99C shows a sectional view along the line A-A according to FIG.99B;

FIG. 99D shows a lateral view of an end side of the closure device;

FIG. 100A shows an exploded view of yet another exemplary embodiment ofa closure device;

FIG. 100B shows another exploded view of the closure device;

FIG. 101A shows a view of the closure device in a closed position;

FIG. 101B shows a view of the longitudinal side of the closure device inthe closed position;

FIG. 101C shows a sectional view along the line A-A according to FIG.101B;

FIG. 101D shows a lateral view of an end side of the closure device inthe closed position;

FIG. 102A shows a view of the closure device in an opening movement ofan adjustment part;

FIG. 102B shows a view of the longitudinal side of the closure device;

FIG. 102C shows a sectional view along the line A-A according to FIG.102B;

FIG. 102D shows a lateral view of an end side of the closure device;

FIG. 103A shows a view of the closure device when opening;

FIG. 103B shows a view of the longitudinal side of the closure device;

FIG. 103C shows a sectional view along the line A-A according to FIG.103B;

FIG. 103D shows a lateral view of an end side of the closure device;

FIG. 104A shows a view of the closure device when resetting theadjustment part;

FIG. 104B shows a view of the longitudinal side of the closure device;

FIG. 104C shows a sectional view along the line A-A according to FIG.104B;

FIG. 104D shows a lateral view of an end side of the closure device;

FIG. 105A shows a view of the closure device when being closed again;

FIG. 105B shows a view of the longitudinal side of the closure device;

FIG. 105C shows a lateral view along the line A-A according to FIG.105B;

FIG. 105D shows a lateral view of an end side of the closure device;

FIG. 106 shows a schematic view of an exemplary embodiment of theclosure device in which a ramp on a first closure part has differentportions for interacting with a locking element for locking the firstclosure part to a second closure part;

FIG. 107A shows a view of end sides of the closure parts;

FIG. 107B shows a sectional view through the closure parts;

FIG. 108A shows a view of end sides of the closure parts;

FIG. 108B shows a sectional view through the closure parts;

FIG. 109A shows a view of end sides of the closure parts; and

FIG. 109B shows a sectional view through the closure parts.

DESCRIPTION OF THE INVENTION

FIGS. 1A-D to FIGS. 5A-D show a first exemplary embodiment of theclosure device 1 which has a first closure part 2 and a second closurepart 3. The closure parts 2, 3 can be placed against one another along aclosing direction X, and in a closing position (FIGS. 2A-D) are fixedlyconnected to one another and locked to one another along the closingdirection X.

The figure identified by the suffix A in FIGS. 1A-D to FIGS. 5A-D showsin each case a perspective view, the figure identified by the suffix Bshows in each case a lateral view, the figure identified by the suffix Cshows in each case a sectional view along the line A-A according to thefigure identified by the suffix B, and the figure identified by thesuffix D shows in each case a sectional view along the line B-Baccording to the figure identified by the suffix B.

In the exemplary embodiment illustrated, the first closure part 2 has abody 20 and an adjustment part 21 which is disposed so as to beadjustable along an activation direction B on the body 20. An engagementopening 200 into which an engagement element 31 which in the manner of apeg molded on a base 30 of the second closure part 3 can be insertedalong the closing direction X so as to connect the closure parts 2, 3 toone another is molded in the body 20.

Two receptacle openings 201 are molded in the body 20 of the firstclosure part 2, one locking element 23 lying in each case in said tworeceptacle openings 201. The receptacle openings 201 are molded onmutually opposite sides of the engagement opening 200 such that thelocking elements 23 are disposed on both sides of the engagement opening200, as can be seen from FIG. 10, for example.

The locking elements 23 are in the shape of bolts in each caseconfigured as cylindrical pins that extend along a longitudinaldirection L. The locking elements 23 are configured so as to be magneticin that said locking elements 23 are made entirely or partially from aferromagnetic material, or have one or a plurality of permanent magnets.

The locking elements 23 are in each case guided in an assignedreceptacle opening 201 of the body 20. The receptacle openings 201extend along the longitudinal direction L through the body 20 and are ina plane, which is defined by the closing direction X and a transversedirection Q that is directed transversely to the closing direction X andtransversely to the longitudinal direction L and in which the engagementportions 310 extend in a curved manner, are configured in the manner ofslots and herein extend obliquely to the closing direction X and to thetransverse direction Q, as can be seen from FIG. 10, for example. Thebolt-shaped locking elements 23 in the plane defined by the closingdirection X and the transverse direction Q can be adjusted on the body20 in such a manner that the locking elements 23 in a locking position(FIG. 2C) project inwardly into the region of the engagement opening200, and in an unblocked position (FIG. 4C) are retracted from theregion of the engagement opening 200.

The adjustment part 21 of the first closure part 2 has an intermediateportion 210 by way of which the adjustment part 21 is guided along theactivation direction B on the body 20 of the first closure part 2. Onboth sides of the intermediate portion 210, so as to be mutually spacedapart along the longitudinal direction L, the adjustment part 21 has ineach case one flank portion 211 which extends beyond ends of the lockingelements 23 that project along the longitudinal direction L andencompasses the locking elements 23 by way of a peripheral portion 212that configures an activation element, as can be seen from FIGS. 1B and4B, for example.

A magnetic installation 22 in the form of a permanent magnet havingpoles N, S is disposed on the intermediate portion 210 of the adjustmentpart 21.

An engagement portion 310 in the form of an inward-pointing clearance ismolded on both sides on the engagement element 31 of the second closurepart 3. Moreover, a magnetic installation 32 in the form of a permanentmagnet having poles S, N is disposed on the engagement element 31, saidmagnetic installation 32 interacting in a magnetically attracting mannerwith the magnetic installation 22 on the adjustment part 21 of the firstclosure part 2 and on account thereof magnetically assisting a closingaction of the closure device 1.

FIGS. 1A-D show the closure device 1 in an opened position beforeplacing the closure parts 2, 3 against one another.

In order for the closure direction 1 to be closed, the closure parts 2,3 are placed against one another along the closing direction X in such amanner that the engagement element 31 comes to engage with theengagement opening 200. The engagement element 31 when being introducedinto the engagement opening 200 herein forces the locking elements 23outward and thus aside in the receptacle openings 201 such that theclosure parts 2, 3 make their way to the closing position illustrated inFIGS. 2A-D.

The magnetic installation 32 of the second closure part 3 interacts in amagnetically attracting manner with the locking element 23. This has theeffect that the locking elements 23 in the closing position are pulledso as to engage with the engagement portions 310 on the engagementelement 31 such that a positive locking mechanism is established betweenthe closure parts 2, 3, as can be seen from FIGS. 2A-D.

When the closure parts 2, 3 are loaded toward one another, as isillustrated in FIGS. 3A-D, the locking elements 23 are thus wedgedbetween ramps 311 on the engagement portions 310 and opposite ramps 205on the body 20 in the region of the receptacle openings 201. The closureparts 2, 3 are thus held against one another in a locked manner andcannot be readily released from one another, at least not withoutreleasing the locking mechanism (wherein a separation of the closureparts 2, 3 is optionally possible when a predetermined limit force isexceeded).

If the closure parts 2, 3 are to be released from one another, theadjustment part 21 can thus be activated in the activation direction Bon the body 20 of the first closure part 2, as can be seen from FIGS.4A-D. On account thereof, the adjustment part 21 by way of theperipheral portions 212 that are configured on the flank portions 211and implement activation elements acts on the ends of the lockingelements 23 that project from the body 20, and in this way adjusts thelocking elements 23 in the receptacle openings 201 upward and, by virtueof the oblique extent of the receptacle openings 201, thus outward inthe activation direction B in such a manner that the locking elements 23come to disengage from the engagement portions 310 and the closure parts2, 3 are thus unlocked from one another.

Because the magnetic installation 22 of the first closure part 2 isdisposed on the intermediate portion 210 of the adjustment part 21, themagnetic attraction between the magnetic installations 22, 32 is alsoweakened when the adjustment part 21 is adjusted. The closure parts 2, 3can thus be simply released from one another along the closing directionX, as is illustrated in FIGS. 5A-D. The force required for opening inthis embodiment is predefined by the magnetic force which acts betweenthe magnetic installation 22 and the magnetic installation 32. Theadjustment part 21 is thus magnetically preloaded and cannotinadvertently be readily opened by minor release forces. This can beadvantageous, for example, when a closure of this type is used on a dogleash.

The force which is required for displacing the adjustment part 21increases under load herein.

The opening of the closure device 1 is simple and comfortable. Inparticular, a user for opening can simply grip the adjustment part 21and pull the latter in the activation direction B on the adjustment part21. Because the activation direction B is parallel to the closingdirection X and oriented so as to be identical to a separation directionT (FIG. 5A), the locking mechanism can be released and the closure parts2, 3 can be removed from one another in one motion cycle by gripping theadjustment part 21.

FIGS. 6 and 7 show an exemplary embodiment of the closure device 1 whichin functional terms is largely identical to the exemplary embodimentaccording to FIGS. 1A-D to 5A-D but does not have an adjustment part 21,a magnetic installation 22 thus being disposed directly on the body 20of the first closure part 2.

In particular, a first closure part 2 has a body 20 having lockingelements 23 that are guided in receptacle openings 201. A second closurepart 3 having an engagement element 31 can be plugged into an engagementopening 200 of the body 20 so as to close the closure device 1 and tolock the latter by way of the locking elements 23 engaging in engagementportions 310 molded on the engagement element 31.

Fastening portions 202, 300, for example for fastening a strap, are ineach case disposed on the body 22 of the first closure part 2 and thebase 30 of the second closure part 3.

FIGS. 8A-C and 9A-D visualize in which way the ramps 205, 311 on thereceptacle openings 201 and the engagement portions 311 can be orientedin relation to one another.

In a first embodiment, the ramp 311 molded on each engagement portion310 can be oriented so as to be parallel to the opposite ramp 205 of theassigned receptacle opening 201 (as is illustrated in FIG. 2C, forexample). In this case, the locking elements 23 are wedged between theramps 205, 311 when the closure parts 2, 3 are under load, wherein theclosure parts 2, 3 have mutual play, as can be seen from FIGS. 3A-D, andunder load are thus (slightly) removed from one another along theclosing direction X, as becomes evident in particular from FIG. 3C.

In the embodiment illustrated in FIGS. 8A-C, the ramps 205, 311 inrelation to one another have an angle α which is greater than zero, suchthat the ramps 205, 301 form a wedge shape which widens toward theoutside. This has the effect that the locking elements 23 are pulled soas to further engage with the engagement portions 310 when the closureparts 2, 3 in the closing position are stressed by vibrations, thisleading to the closure parts 2, 3 being brought to engage with oneanother without play and being held against one another without play, ascan be seen from FIG. 8C.

This angular orientation of the ramps 205, 311 in relation to oneanother herein has the effect that, when closure parts 2, 3 are under aload toward one another along the closing direction X that exceeds apredetermined limit force, the closure parts 2, 3 can be released fromone another in a self-acting manner while displacing the lockingelements 23 in the receptacle openings 201. The connection of theclosure parts 2, 3 in the closing position is not self-securing.

The activation force for opening under load in this exemplary embodimentcan be the lowest in comparison to the other embodiments.

In the embodiment according to FIGS. 9A-D, the ramps 205, 311 inrelation to one another form an angle β which is smaller than zero insuch a manner that the ramps 205, 311 configure a wedge shape thattapers toward the outside. In consequence, the locking elements 23, whenthe closure parts 2, 3 are under a load toward one another along theclosing direction X, are wedged in a self-securing manner between theramps 205, 311 and the connection of the closure parts 2, 3 in theclosing direction is thus secured and cannot be released in aself-acting manner even by way of great force. The connection is thusself-securing. Releasing the closure parts 2, 3 from one another ispossible only by unlocking the locking elements 23, for example by wayof an adjustment part 21.

The activation force for opening under load in this exemplary embodimentcan be the highest in comparison to the other embodiments.

The angular orientation of the ramps 205, 311 in the embodimentaccording to FIGS. 9A-D results in the closure parts 2, 3 under loadhaving mutual play, as can be seen from FIG. 9D.

In the exemplary embodiment illustrated in FIGS. 1A-D to FIGS. 5A-D, thefirst closure part 2 has a magnetic installation 22 which is disposed onthe adjustment part 21, and the second closure part 3 has a magneticinstallation 32 which is disposed on the engagement element 31. Inprinciple, the magnetic installations 22, 32 can be of dissimilarconfigurations, as is visualized in FIGS. 10-14.

In the exemplary embodiment according to FIG. 10, each magneticinstallation 22, 32 is formed by a permanent magnet having poles N, S,wherein the permanent magnets have reversed polarities in relation toone another, and unlike poles on the closure parts 2, 3 are opposite oneanother in an attracting manner. The poles herein are disposed besideone another along the transverse direction Q.

In the exemplary embodiment according to FIG. 11, the magneticinstallation 22 of the first closure part 2 is embodied by a magneticarmature from a ferromagnetic material. In contrast, the magneticinstallation 32 of the second closure part 3 is formed by a permanentmagnet which in a magnetically attracting manner interacts with themagnetic armature of the magnetic installation 22.

In the exemplary embodiment according to FIG. 12, each magneticinstallation 22, 32 is formed by a permanent magnet, wherein the polesN, S of the permanent magnets are disposed beside one another along theclosing direction X (activation direction B).

In the exemplary embodiment according to FIG. 13, the magneticinstallation 32 of the second closure part 3 is formed by a trapezoidalpermanent magnet element. This has the advantage that the spacingbetween the locking element 23 and the magnetic installation 32 can bevery small and the magnetic force acting on the locking element 23 thuscan be relatively strong.

In the exemplary embodiment according to FIG. 14, the magneticinstallation 22 of the first closure part 2 is not disposed on theadjustment part 21 but on the body 20 of the first closure part 2.

FIGS. 15A, 15B show a closure device 1 which in functional terms isidentical to the exemplary embodiment according to FIGS. 1A-D to FIGS.5A-D, such that reference is to be made entirely to the embodimentsabove. The closure device 1 according to FIGS. 15A, 15B herein isconfigured as a strap connector. Accordingly, a fastening portion 202for fastening a strap is configured on the first closure part 2, and afastening portion 300, likewise for fastening a strap, is configured onthe second closure part 3.

FIGS. 16A, 16B show an exemplary embodiment of the closure device 1 inwhich two second closure parts 3 are to be placed against a firstclosure part 2, as is yet to be explained hereunder by means of FIGS.19A-F and 20A-E. The closure direction 1 according to FIGS. 16A, 16Bthus forms a multi-point connection, wherein a strap for a multi-pointstrap connection can be disposed on each closure part 2, 3, for example.

FIGS. 17A, 17B show an exemplary embodiment of the closure device 1which in functional terms is likewise largely identical to the exemplaryembodiment according to FIGS. 1A-D to FIGS. 5A-D, such that in terms offunctionality reference is to be made to the above embodiments.

In the exemplary embodiment according to FIGS. 17A, 17B, the firstclosure part 2 has legs 203, the engagement opening 200 being formedtherebetween and the second closure part 3 by way of an engagementelement 31 molded thereon being able to be inserted between said legs203 so as to close the closure device 1. A guiding engagement 204 inwhich assigned guide pegs 301 on the engagement element 31 of the secondclosure part 3 engage when the closure parts 2, 3 are placed against oneanother is molded on the upper edges of the legs 203.

Receptacle openings 201 which receive the locking elements 23 such thatthe locking elements 23 extend between the legs 203 are molded on thelegs 203 of the first closure part 2. As described above by means ofFIGS. 1A-D to 5A-D, an adjustment part 21 serves for unlocking thelocking elements 23.

A fastening portion 202 in the form of a bar which is received betweenthe legs 203 and which serves as a strap fastening is disposed on thefirst closure part 2. The second closure part 3 likewise has a fasteningportion 300 for fastening a strap.

An exemplary embodiment illustrated in FIGS. 18A, 18B is in functionalterms largely identical to the exemplary embodiment according to FIGS.17A, 17B. In the exemplary embodiment according to FIGS. 18A, 18B, thefirst closure part 2 is to be fixedly connected to a subordinatefunctional group, for example a housing portion or a wall portion of asubordinate functional group, by way of fastening portions 202.

The closure device 1 of the exemplary embodiment according to FIGS. 16A,16B is configured as a multi-point connection, and has a first closurepart 2 and two second closure parts 3A, 3B which are to be placedagainst the first closure part 2. The first closure part 2 herein, ascan be seen from FIGS. 16A, 16B when viewed in combination with FIGS.19A-F, has a body 20 in which an engagement opening 200 into which thesecond closure parts 3A, 3B can be inserted conjointly with theengagement elements 31 is molded, as can be seen from the transitionfrom FIG. 19A to FIG. 19C.

In the exemplary embodiment illustrated, the second closure parts 3A, 3Bcan first be assembled and thereafter conjointly inserted into theengagement opening 200 of the first closure part 2, as is illustrated inFIGS. 19A-F. The second closure parts 3A, 3B have in each case amagnetic installation 32, for example in the form of a permanent magnet,said magnetic installations 32 interacting in a magnetically attractingmanner such that the closure parts 3A, 3B when placed against oneanother assume a mutual orientation according to the intended use, ascan be seen from FIG. 19B. The closure parts 3A, 3B in this assembledorientation can be placed against the closure part 2 and brought toengage with the engagement opening 200 such that the closure parts 3A,3B by way of locking elements 23 on the closure part 2 lock in a closingposition (FIG. 19C) in the engagement opening 200.

In order for the closure parts 2, 3A, 3B to be released from oneanother, the adjustment part 21 (FIGS. 16A, 16B) can be activated in anactivation direction B such that the locking elements 23 are adjusted inthe activation direction B and, by virtue of being guided in thereceptacle openings 201, are relocated toward the outside, as can beseen from FIG. 19B. The locking mechanism is thus canceled such that theclosure parts 3A, 3B can be retrieved from the closure part 2 and beseparated from one another (FIGS. 19E, 19F).

An exemplary embodiment illustrated in FIGS. 18A, 18B is in functionalterms largely identical to the exemplary embodiment according to FIGS.17A, 17B. In the exemplary embodiment according to FIGS. 18A, 18B, thefirst closure part 2 is to be fixedly connected to a subordinatefunctional group, for example a housing portion or a wall portion of asubordinate functional group, by way of fastening portions 202.

The closure device 1 of the exemplary embodiment according to FIGS. 16A,16B is configured as a multi-point connection, and has a first closurepart 2 and two second closure parts 3A, 3B which are to be placedagainst the first closure part 2. The first closure part 2 herein, ascan be seen from FIGS. 16A, 16B when viewed in combination with FIGS.19A-F, has a body 20 in which an engagement opening 200 into which thesecond closure parts 3A, 3B can be inserted conjointly with theengagement elements 31 is molded, as can be seen from the transitionfrom FIG. 19A to FIG. 19C.

In the exemplary embodiment illustrated, the second closure parts 3A, 3Bcan first be assembled and thereafter conjointly inserted into theengagement opening 200 of the first closure part 2, as is illustrated inFIGS. 19A-F. The second closure parts 3A, 3B have in each case amagnetic installation 32, for example in the form of a permanent magnet,said magnetic installations 32 interacting in a magnetically attractingmanner such that the closure parts 3A, 3B when placed against oneanother assume a mutual orientation according to the intended use, ascan be seen from FIG. 19B. The closure parts 3A, 3B in this assembledorientation can be placed against the closure part 2 and brought toengage with the engagement opening 200 such that the closure parts 3A,3B by way of locking elements 23 on the closure part 2 lock in a closingposition (FIG. 19C) in the engagement opening 200.

In order for the closure parts 2, 3A, 3B to be released from oneanother, the adjustment part 21 (FIGS. 16A, 16B) can be activated in anactivation direction B such that the locking elements 23 are adjusted inthe activation direction B and, by virtue of being guided in thereceptacle openings 201, are relocated toward the outside, as can beseen from FIG. 19B. The locking mechanism is thus canceled such that theclosure parts 3A, 3B can be retrieved from the closure part 2 and beseparated from one another (FIGS. 19E, 19F).

An engagement groove 303 which, when placing the closure parts 3A, 3Bagainst one another, engages in an engagement cam 302 on the closurepart 302 such that the placing of the closure parts 3A, 3B against oneanother in the correct orientation is assisted when connecting to theclosure part 2 is molded on an end side on the closure part 3A whichfaces the other closure part 3B.

FIGS. 21, 22, and 23A-D show a further exemplary embodiment of a closuredevice 1 in which the closure parts 2, 3 are to be placed against oneanother along a closing direction X.

While the locking elements 23 in the previously described exemplaryembodiments are movable along an adjustment direction that is directedobliquely to the closing direction X and obliquely to the transversedirection Q in the assigned receptacle openings 201, locking elements 23in the exemplary embodiment according to FIGS. 21-23 are pivotablymounted in receptacle openings 201 of a body 20 of the closure part 2.The locking elements 23 are magnetic and interact with magneticinstallations 22, 32 of the closure parts 2, 3.

In order for the closure device 1 to be closed, the closure part 2 byway of an engagement element 31 molded on a base 30 can be plugged intoan engagement opening 200 in the body 20 of the closure part 2, as canbe seen in the transition from FIG. 23A to FIG. 23B. The lockingelements 23 herein are forced aside, wherein the locking elements 23upon reaching the closing position (FIG. 23C) by virtue of the magneticinteraction with the magnetic installation 32 of the closure part 3 arepulled so as to engage with engagement portions 310 on the engagementelement 31 of the closure part 3 such that the closure parts 2, 3 arelocked to one another.

The connection between the closure parts 2, 3 herein is (largely)without play, as is schematically shown in FIG. 23D. Each lockingelement 23 in relation to the body 20 is thus pivotable about a centerM1. Each locking element 23 on a side that faces the engagement portion310 herein has a curved contact face 232, the curvature thereoffollowing a circle D2 about a center M2 which is eccentric in relationto the center M1. An assigned contact face 312 on the engagement portion310 is also correspondingly molded.

A wedge shape which by virtue of the eccentricity tapers toward theinside results on the contact face 232 of the locking element 23, thisbeing caused in that an outer edge moves along an outer circle D1 a andan inner edge of the locking element 23 moves along an inner circle D1 bwhen the locking element 23 is pivoted. For example in the case ofstress by vibrations between the closure parts 2, 3, the wedge shape hasthe effect that the locking elements 23 are pulled so as to furtherengage with the engagement portions 310 and, on account thereof,establish the closure parts 2, 3 without play in relation to oneanother.

The connection is releasable in a self-acting manner when a limit forceis exceeded, in that the locking elements 23 when exceeding the limitforce are forced aside by virtue of the eccentricity of the contactfaces 233, 312.

The contact faces 232, 312 can also be designed so as to be converselyeccentric (having a center M2 which in relation to the center M1 isoffset toward the engagement portion 310). In this case, the engagementof the locking elements 23 in the engagement portions 310 isself-securing and is reinforced when the closure parts 2, 3 are underload.

In an exemplary embodiment illustrated in FIGS. 24, 25, and 26A-C, thelocking elements 23 are configured as plates which are pivotablyreceived on receptacle openings 201. The locking elements 23 are againmagnetic and in the closing position (FIG. 26C) are pulled so as toengage with engagement portions 310 on the engagement element 31 of theclosure part 3 such that the connection between the closure parts 2, 3is locked.

The functional mode of the exemplary embodiment according to FIGS. 24,25, and 26A-C is otherwise analogous to that explained above.

In an exemplary embodiment illustrated in FIGS. 27, 28, and 29A-C, onlya unilateral locking mechanism is established between closure parts 2, 3in that a locking element 23 in the form of a elongate pin that isreceived in a receptacle opening 201 is disposed only on one side of theengagement opening 201 molded on the body 20. In the closing position(FIG. 29C), the magnetic locking element 23 engages in the assignedengagement portion 310 on the engagement element 31 of the closure part3 and, on account thereof, locks the closure parts 2, 3 to one another.

The functional mode of the exemplary embodiment according to FIGS. 27,28, and 29A-C is otherwise identical to that explained above, inparticular to the exemplary embodiment according to FIGS. 1A-D to FIGS.5A-D.

In the exemplary embodiments described above, the at least one lockingelement 23 can be manually activated by acting directly on the lockingelement 23. Alternatively, an adjustment part 21 which for acting on thelocking element 23 is activatable along an activation direction B so asto move the locking elements 23 from the locked position thereof and tothus be able to release the closure parts 2, 3 from one another can beprovided on the first closure part 2.

In the exemplary embodiment according to FIGS. 1A-D to FIGS. 5A-D, theactivation direction B herein is directed so as to be parallel to theclosing direction X such that the locking elements 23 can be relocatedand thus unlocked in the assigned receptacle openings 201 by activatingthe adjustment part 21.

In contrast, in an exemplary embodiment illustrated in FIGS. 30A-C to33A-C, the locking elements 23 are able to be unlocked in that theadjustment part 21 is activatable in an activation direction B that isdirected transversely to the closing direction X so as to slide thelocking elements 23 along the activation direction B out of the regionof the receptacle openings 201. To this end, the adjustment part 21 hasan effective element 213 which by way of a connection portion 215 isconnected to the intermediate portion 210 of the adjustment part 21 andby way of spring elements 214 is spring-preloaded in relation to thebody 20 of the closure part 2.

The adjustment part 21 has a flank portion 211 on which the lockingelements 23 are axially fastened such that the locking elements 23 canbe pushed out of the region of the receptacle openings 201 by adjustingthe flank portion 211 in the activation direction B.

The closure parts 2, 3 in an initial position can be placed against oneanother in the direction in which the adjustment part 21 is preloaded bythe spring elements 214, said closure parts 2, 3 locking to one anotherin the closing position (FIGS. 31A-C). In particular, the lockingelements 23 received in the receptacle openings 201 in the body 20engage in assigned engagement portions 310 on the engagement element 31of the closure part 3, and in this way establish a connection betweenthe closure parts 2, 3.

In order for the connection between the closure parts 2, 3 to bereleased, a user can act on the effective element 213 and displace theadjustment part 21 in the activation direction B in relation to the body20, as can be seen from FIGS. 32A-C. On account thereof, the lockingelements 23 are pushed transversely to the closing direction X out ofthe receptacle openings 201, such that the locking mechanism between theclosure parts 2, 3 is canceled. The closure parts 2, 3 can thus beseparated from one another along the separation direction T (FIGS.33A-C).

In an exemplary embodiment illustrated in FIGS. 34A-E to 37A-E, theclosure parts 2, 3, and in particular an adjustment part 21 disposed onthe closure part 2, in functional terms are configured identical to theexemplary embodiment according to FIGS. 1A-D to 5A-D. Additionallyhowever, one effective element 24 which is operatively connected to theadjustment part 21 and is adjustable along an effective direction D inrelation to the body 20 so as to, on account thereof, act on theadjustment part 21 and activate the adjustment part 21 in the activationdirection B in relation to the body 20 in order for the closure parts 2,3 to be released from one another is disposed on each of the two sidesof the adjustment part 21.

Each effective element 24 has a deflection portion 241 in the form of aninclined plane which bears on an assigned deflection portion 216 in theform of an inclined plane on the adjustment part 21, as can be seen inparticular from FIG. 34E. Each effective element 24 herein by way of aspring element 240 is spring-preloaded in relation to the body 20 of theclosure part 2 and in an unstressed state is thus situated in theinitial position illustrated in FIGS. 34A-E.

If the closure parts 2, 3 are to be released from one another from theclosing position thereof (FIGS. 35A-D), a user can depress the effectiveelements 24 on both sides and push the latter, counter to thespring-preload of the spring elements 240, toward the body 20 and thuson to one another. On account thereof, the deflection portions 241 ofthe effective elements 24 slide on the deflection portions 216 of theadjustment part 21 and move the adjustment part 21 in the activationdirection B in relation to the body 20 of the closure part 2 such that,on account thereof, the locking elements 23 are lifted and moved outwardin the receptacle openings 201, as can be seen from FIG. 36C. Thelocking mechanism between the closure parts 2, 3 is thus canceled, andthe closure parts 2, 3 can be separated from one another along theseparation direction T (FIGS. 37A-E).

In an exemplary embodiment illustrated in FIGS. 38A-D to 41A-D, theadjustment part 21 is displaceable along a transverse direction Q on thebody 20 of the closure part 2, and on flank portions 211 has activationelements 212 in the form of inward-pointing guide edges. The activationelements 212 on the internal sides of the flank portions 211 herein havedifferent portions 212A, 212B which are mutually offset along theclosing direction X and are connected to one another by way of aninclined plane.

In terms of the locking elements 23 and the locking mechanism betweenthe closure parts 2, 3 in the closing position (FIGS. 39A-D), theexemplary embodiment according to FIGS. 38A-D to 41A-D is identical tothe exemplary embodiment according to FIGS. 1A-D to 5A-D, but differs interms of the adjustment part 21.

In order for the closure parts 2, 3 to be released from one another, theadjustment part 21 is thus displaced transversely to the closingdirection X, in the activation direction B, in relation to the body 20of the closure part 2, on account of which the locking elements 23inside the flank portions 211 run onto the portions 212B of theactivation elements 212, as can be seen in the transition from FIGS.39A-D to FIGS. 41A-D. On account thereof, the locking elements 23 arelifted in the receptacle openings 201 and relocated toward the outsideand thus brought to disengage from its locking engagement from theengagement portions 310 of the engagement element 31 of the closure part3. The closure parts 2, 3 can thus be released from one another alongthe separation direction T (FIGS. 41A-D).

In the exemplary embodiments described above, the one locking element 23or the plurality of locking elements 23 is/are in each case configuredso as to be elongate along a longitudinal direction L, for example ascylindrical pins, as pivotable elements (FIGS. 21-23) or so as to beplate-shaped (FIGS. 24-26). In contrast, in an exemplary embodimentillustrated in FIGS. 42 to 46A-C, a locking element 23 which is designedas an opened ring and is received in an assigned receptacle opening 201about an engagement opening 200 in the body 20 of the closure part 2 isprovided.

The locking element 23 herein is radially expandable such that thelocking element 23 is radially widened and thus can be brought todisengage from a locking engagement with an encircling engagementportion 310 on an engagement element 31 of the closure part 2 byadjusting said locking element 23 in the receptacle opening 201.

The locking element 23 is configured so as to be magnetic. When theclosure parts 2, 3 are placed against one another, the locking element23 by virtue of a magnetic interaction with the magnetic installation 32on the closure part 3 comes to engage in a locking manner with theengagement portion 310 on the engagement element 31 of the closure part3 (FIGS. 44A-C) such that the closure parts 2, 3 are fixedly connectedto one another in a closing position.

The closure part 2 has an adjustment part 21 which is displaceable onthe body 20 along an activation direction B that is directed so as to beparallel to the closing direction X and has an activation element 212 inthe form of an inward-projecting periphery by way of which theadjustment part 21 when activated acts in the activation direction B onthe locking element 23 and moves the latter in the receptacle opening201 and, on account thereof, radially enlarges the latter (FIGS. 45A-C).The locking mechanism between the closure parts 2, 3 is canceled onaccount thereof, such that the closure parts 2, 3 can be separated fromone another along a separation direction T (FIGS. 46A-C).

A plurality of activation elements 212 can advantageously also act onthe locking element 23.

In an exemplary embodiment illustrated in FIGS. 47A-E to 50A-E, aplurality of closure devices 1 are combined so as to form a closuresystem. A plurality of first closure parts 2 of a plurality of closuredevices 1 are thus connected to one another by way of connectionportions 40 in a first functional group 4. In contrast, second closureparts 3 of closure devices 1 are connected to one another by way ofconnection portions 50 in a second functional group 5. The functionalgroups 4, 5 can be placed against one another along a closing directionX while connecting the closure parts 2, 3 to one another.

The closure parts 2, 3 of each closure device 1 are configured in amanner analogous to the exemplary embodiment according to FIGS. 30A-C to33A-C. In particular, each first closure part 2 has an adjustment part21 which by way of a flank portion 211 is connected to locking elements23 of the closure part 2 such that the locking elements 23 can be pushedout of the receptacle openings 201 in the body 20 of the closure part 2along an activation direction B that is directed transversely to theclosing direction X, so as to unlock the closure parts 2, 3 from oneanother and separate the functional groups 4, 5 from one another.

The adjustment parts 21 of the first closure parts 2 herein areconnected to one another by way of connection portions 215 in such amanner that the adjustment part 21 can be conjointly displaced in theactivation direction B by way of a (single) effective element 213, so asto conjointly unlock the closure devices 1.

In the closing position (FIGS. 48A-E), all of the closure parts 2, 3engage in one another and are locked to one another on account of thelocking elements 23 engaging in assigned engagement portions 310 on theengagement elements 31 of the second closure part 3 (FIG. 48B). Byconjointly activating the adjustment parts 21 (FIGS. 49A-E), the lockingelements 23 of each first closure part 2 are lifted out of the region ofthe receptacle openings 201 such that the locking mechanism is canceled(FIG. 49D) and the functional groups 4, 5 can thus be separated from oneanother along a separation direction T (FIGS. 50A-E).

The effective element 213 herein by way of spring elements 214 isspring-preloaded in relation to a neighboring closure part 2 such thatthe adjustment parts 21 of the closure parts 2 in a self-acting mannermake their way back to the initial position illustrated in FIG. 47A oncean activation is completed.

An exemplary embodiment illustrated in FIGS. 51A-E to FIGS. 54A-E infunctional terms is largely identical to the exemplary embodimentaccording to FIGS. 47A-E to FIGS. 50A-E. The exemplary embodimentaccording to FIGS. 51A-E to FIGS. 54A-E differs from the exemplaryembodiment according to FIGS. 47A-E to FIGS. 50A-E only in that in theexemplary embodiment according to FIGS. 51A-E to FIGS. 54A-E effectiveelements 213, 218 in the form of pulling eyelets are disposed on bothsides of the functional group 4, and the effective element 213 is notspring-preloaded in relation to the neighboring closure part 2. Once theactivation has been completed, the effective element 213 and by way ofthe latter the adjustment part 21 of the closure parts 2, are thus to bemanually retracted, counter to the activation direction B, to theinitial position according to FIG. 51A.

In an exemplary embodiment illustrated in FIGS. 55A-D to 59A-D, aplurality (specifically three in the exemplary embodiment illustrated)of second closure part 3 can be placed against a first closure part 2,wherein the second closure parts 3 can be placed individually orconjointly against the first closure part 2.

The first closure part 2 in functional terms is configured so as to beidentical to the exemplary embodiment according to FIGS. 1A-D to FIGS.5A-D. The second closure parts 3 are in each case also configured so asto be identical to the exemplary embodiment according to FIGS. 1A-D to5A-D, wherein the second closure parts 3 along the longitudinaldirection L are however so short, and the engagement openings 200 in thebody 20 of the first closure part 2 are so long, that a plurality ofsecond closure parts 3 can be conjointly inserted into the engagementopening 200.

Each second closure part 3 herein can lock separately in the engagementopening 200 (cf. FIGS. 56A-D for an inserted second closure part 3,FIGS. 57A-D for two inserted second closure parts 3, and FIGS. 58A-D forthree inserted second closure parts 3). The second closure parts 3herein can be conjointly unlocked by activating the adjustment part 21of the first closure part 2, and thus be conjointly retrieved from thesecond closure part 2 along the separation direction T (FIGS. 59A-D).

In an exemplary embodiment illustrated in FIGS. 60A, 60B to 64A, 64B,the first closure part 2 is configured so as to be identical to theexemplary embodiment according to FIGS. 17A, 17B. In comparison to theexemplary embodiment according to FIGS. 17A, 17B, the second closurepart 3 in the exemplary embodiment according to FIGS. 60A, 60B to 64A,64B however has a base 30 having elastically adjustable engagementportions 310 molded on the latter, as well as a blocking piece 33 whichis adjustable in relation to the base 30.

The magnetic installation 32 of the closure part 3 in the exemplaryembodiment illustrated is disposed on the blocking piece 33. When theclosure parts 2, 3 are placed against one another, the engagementportions 310 come to engage in a locking manner with the locking element32 of the closure part 2, wherein the blocking piece 33, by virtue ofthe magnetic interaction between the magnetic installations 22, 32 ofthe closure parts 2, 3, makes its way to a blocking position and by wayof a blocking portion 330 comes to lie between the engagement portions310 such that an elastic yielding movement of the engagement portions310 toward the inside is prevented.

In the closure device 1 according to FIGS. 60A, 60B to 64A, 64B,unlocking is possible by activating the adjustment part 21, on the onehand, in a manner entirely analogous to that described above.

On the other hand, the blocking piece 33 can be activated along anactivation direction C on the base 30 of the adjustment part 3, as isillustrated in the transition from FIGS. 62A, 62B to FIGS. 63A, 63B. Onaccount thereof, the blocking portion 330 is retracted in relation tothe engagement portions 310 such that the engagement portions 310 are nolonger blocked and can elastically yield toward the inside. This enablesthe adjustment parts 2, 3 to be removed from one another while theengagement portions 310 are elastically deflected, as is illustrated inFIGS. 64A, 64B.

In the exemplary embodiment according to FIGS. 65A, 65B to 69A, 69B,engagement portions 310 are elastically molded on the base 30 of theadjustment part 3, wherein however no blocking piece is provided as inthe previously described exemplary embodiment, but the engagementportions 310 by way of activation portions 305 can be manually deformedand thus unlocked. The closure part 3 herein is integrally molded andhas a central support portion 304 on which the magnetic installation 32is disposed.

The first closure part 2 is configured so as to be identical to theexemplary embodiment according to FIGS. 17A, 17B. For closing, thesecond closure part 3 can be placed against the first closure part 2along the closing direction X and in the closing position (FIGS. 67A,67B) is locked by way of the locking elements 23 of the first closurepart 2. In order for the closure parts 2, 3 to be separated from oneanother, a user can manually act on the activation portions 305 of thesecond closure part 3 and depress said activation portions 305 inward inan activation direction E such that the engagement portions 310 arerelocated toward the inside and the locking mechanism is thus canceled.The closure parts 2, 3 can thus be separated from one another (FIGS.69A, 69B).

This exemplary embodiment provides a closure which is triggered from aforce that is determined by the resilient elasticity of the deformableengagement portions 310.

In an exemplary embodiment of the closure device 1 illustrated in FIGS.70A, 70B and 71A, 71B, a first closure part 2 has a body 20 having anengagement opening 200 molded therein, and locking elements 23 which arereceived in receptacle openings 201, in a manner analogous to thatdescribed with the exemplary embodiment according to FIGS. 1A-D to FIGS.5A-D, wherein in the exemplary embodiment according to FIGS. 70A, 70B,71A, 71B the first closure part 2 does not have an adjustment part 21and the magnetic installation 22 is disposed on the body 20. A secondclosure part 3 in terms of function is configured so as to be analogousto that in the exemplary embodiment according to FIGS. 1A-D to FIGS.5A-D.

In the exemplary embodiment according to FIGS. 70A, 70B, 71A, 71B,electrical connectors 25 are connected to the locking elements 23.Electrical contact elements 350 which are connected to electricalconnectors 35 are disposed in the region of the engagement portions 310of the second closure part 3. The electrically conductive lockingelements 23 in the closing position (FIGS. 71A, 71B) bear on the contactelements 350 such that the connectors 25, 35 are electrically connectedto one another and an electrical connection is thus established in theclosing position.

The electrical connection can be canceled by separating the closureparts 2, 3 from one another.

In an exemplary embodiment illustrated in FIGS. 72A, 72B, 73A, 73B,connectors 25 are not connected to the locking elements 23 but, asopposed to the exemplary embodiment according to FIGS. 70A, 70B and 71A,71B, to contact elements 250 in the region of the receptacle openings201. The contact elements 350 herein are disposed in such a manner thatthe electrically conductive locking elements 23 in the closing positionof the closure device 1 (FIGS. 73A, 73B) bear on the contact elements250 of the first closure part 2 and also on contact elements 350 of thesecond closure part 3 such that an electrical connection between theconnectors 25, 35 is established by way of the locking elements 23, ascan be seen from FIG. 73B.

In an exemplary embodiment illustrated in FIGS. 74A, 74B, 75A, 75B,electrical connectors 25, 35 are disposed exclusively on the firstclosure part 2, wherein an electrical connection in the closing positionis established in interaction with the second closure part 3. Connectors25 are thus connected to the locking elements 23. The locking elements23 in the closing position (FIG. 75B) herein bear on contact elements350 in the region of the inward-facing ends of the receptacle opening201 such that an electrical connection between the connectors 25, 35 isestablished herewith.

The locking elements 23 in a separated position, by virtue of themagnetic interaction with the magnetic installation 22 of the firstclosure part 2, are situated in the position illustrated in FIG. 74B.The electrical connection between the connectors 25, 35 is thus canceledin the separated position.

An embodiment with a reversed functionality is also possible. Thecontact elements 250 are disposed in the receptacle opening 201 suchthat said contact elements 250 in the open position of the lockingelements 23 bear on the contact elements 250. The open position can thusbe electrically detected.

An exemplary embodiment in which two contact elements are in each casedisposed in each receptacle opening 201 such that one of the contactelements electrically detects the open position and the other detectsthe closing position is moreover possible.

In an exemplary embodiment illustrated in FIGS. 76A, 76B to 81A, 81B, afirst closure part 2 has a body 20 having an engagement opening 200molded therein, a second closure part 3 by way of an engagement element31 molded on a base 30 being able to be brought to engage with saidengagement opening 200.

The first closure part 2 has a locking element 23 which is configured asa ring element (for example as an opened C-ring or as a closed D-ring)and by way of a portion is guided in a receptacle opening 201 thatextends obliquely to the closing direction X and moreover by way of aguide portion 231 which extends in parallel is guided on a guidingopening 206 on the body 20.

In order for the closure parts 2, 3 to be connected to one another, theclosure parts 2, 3 are placed against one another such that theengagement element 31 of the second closure part 3 comes to engage withthe engagement opening 200 of the first closure part 2, and the closureparts 2, 3 are locked to one another on account of the locking element23 engaging in the engagement portion 310 molded on the engagementelement 31, as can be seen from the transition from FIGS. 76A, 76B toFIGS. 79A, 79B.

The first closure part 2 has a magnetic installation 22 on the body 20.In contrast, an adjustment part 36 which is displaceable along anactivation direction B on the base 30 of the adjustment part 3 andsupports a magnetic installation 32 is disposed on the second closurepart 3. By virtue of the magnetic interaction, the closure parts 2, 3when being placed against one another are pulled so as to engage withone another, wherein the locking element 23, by virtue of the magneticattraction force of the magnetic installation 32, is moved to the lockedposition according to FIG. 79B and is held therein. The closure parts 2,3 are thus locked to one another in the closing position.

The locking mechanism between the closure parts 2, 3 in the exemplaryembodiment illustrated can thereby be released in that the adjustmentpart 36 is displaced in the activation direction B in relation to thebase 30 of the closure part 3, as is illustrated in FIGS. 80A, 80B. Onaccount thereof the closure can be unlocked by a plurality of potentialactions. Either the locking element 23, by removing the magneticinstallation 32 from the locking element 23, is magnetically attractedby the magnetic installation 22 of the closure part 2 such that thelocking element 23 makes its way to the unlocked position illustrated inFIGS. 81A, 81B, the closure parts 2, 3 thus being unlocked,.Additionally or alternatively, a disengagement of the engagement portion310 from the locking element 23 is enabled by removing the adjustmentpart 36 from the engagement opening 200. The closure parts 2, 3 can thusbe separated from one another as is illustrated in FIGS. 81A, 81B.

In an exemplary embodiment illustrated in FIGS. 82A, 82B to 84A, 84B, afirst closure part 2 has a body 20 having an engagement opening 201molded therein and a magnetic installation 22 disposed on the body 20. Areceptacle opening 201 in which a bent locking element 23 isdisplaceably received is molded on the body 20. A second closure part 3has a base 30 and an engagement element 31 which is rigidly molded onthe latter and can be brought to engage with the engagement opening 200of the first closure part 2 in order for the closure parts 2, 3 to beconnected to one another.

In a closing position (FIGS. 82A, 82B), the engagement element 31 of thesecond closure part 3 lies in the engagement opening 200 of the firstclosure part 2, and the closure parts 2, 3 are locked to one another onaccount of the locking element 23 engaging in the assigned engagementportion 310 on the engagement element 31. The locking element 23 hereinis pulled so as to engage with the engagement portion 13 by the magneticinstallation 32 of the closure part 3 and is held in a locking manner insaid engagement portion 13.

The locking element 23 is connected to a tab 231 which can be pulled bya user so as to unlock the locking element 23, as can be seen in thetransition from FIGS. 82A, 82B to FIGS. 83A, 83B. The closure parts 2, 3upon unlocking can be separated from one another, as can be seen fromFIGS. 84A, 84B.

FIGS. 85A and 85B show schematic views of a further exemplary embodimentof the closure device 1 which in this exemplary embodiment serves forconnecting a connecting functional group 7 to a superordinate functionalgroup, in this case a wall 74.

The connecting functional group 7 can be configured as a shower curtain,for example, or as any other curtain (net curtain), and has a rodelement 70 which by way of the closure device 1 is to be connected to anassigned wall 74. The connecting functional group 7 has a drape 73 whichby way of slides 71 is guided so as to be adjustable along an adjustmentdirection V on the rod element 70 and can thus be opened and closed.

In the exemplary embodiment illustrated, the closure device 1 has afirst closure part 2 having a body 20 and an engagement opening 200molded therein, an engagement element 31 of the second closure part 3that is molded on a base 30 engaging in said engagement opening 200 in aclosing position. The base 30 herein is formed by an end of the rodelement 70 of the connecting functional group 7.

In a manner analogous to that described above for various exemplaryembodiments, a receptacle opening 201 in which a locking element 23 inthe form of a pin-shaped rod is received is molded on the body 20. In aclosing position (FIG. 85A), the locking element 23 engages in a lockingmanner with an engagement portion 310 on the engagement element 31 ofthe second closure part 3 such that the second closure part 3 is held onthe first closure part 2 and the rod element 70 of the connectingfunctional group 7 by way of the closure device 1 is fixedly connectedto the wall 74 herewith.

The closure parts 2, 3 have in each case a magnetic installation 22, 32which interact in a magnetically attracting manner and thus magneticallyassist in placing the closure parts 2, 3 against one another, in amanner analogous to that described above. The magnetic installation 32moreover interacts with the locking element 23 and pulls the lockingelement 23 so as to engage in a locking manner with the engagementportion 310 such that the locking element 23 is herewith held also inthe locking position of the latter.

In the exemplary embodiment illustrated, an activation piece 72 which,when closing the drape 73, is moved close to the closure device 1 in theadjustment direction V and can be adjusted in relation to the closuredevice such that the activation piece 72 on the first closure part 2acts on the locking element 23 and adjusts the locking element 23 in thereceptacle opening 201 such that the closure device 1 is unlocked, as isillustrated in FIG. 85B, is disposed on the last slide 71, facing theclosure device 1, of the connecting functional group 7. In this positionof the activation piece 72, the locking mechanism between the closureparts 2, 3 is thus released, wherein the closure parts 2, 3 areinitially still held magnetically to one another by the magneticinstallations 22, 32, but can be pulled so as to disengage by a user.

The unlocking action in this exemplary embodiment thus takes place by anactivation piece 72 which implements an adjustment part which can bemoved independently of the closure parts 2, 3 but for unlocking can acton the locking element 23, as can be seen from FIG. 85B.

In an exemplary embodiment schematically illustrated in FIG. 86, as amodification of the exemplary embodiment according to FIGS. 85A, 85B, anactivation piece 72 which has a magnetic installation 720 in the form ofa permanent magnet is disposed on the last slide 71, facing the closuredirection 1. In this exemplary embodiment, the activation piece 72magnetically interacts with the locking element 23 in such a manner thatthe magnetic forces of the magnetic installation 720 of the activationpart 72 exceed the magnetic forces in particular of the magneticinstallation 32 of the second closure part 3 when said activation piece72 is moved close to the closure direction 1, the locking element 23being pulled out of the locking engagement with the engagement portion310 of the second closure part 3 when the activation part 72 is movedclose to the closure device 1, as can be seen from FIG. 86. In theexemplary embodiment according to FIG. 86, the closure device 1 can thusbe magnetically unlocked by way of the activation piece 72.

The exemplary embodiment according to FIG. 86 is otherwise comparable tothe exemplary embodiment according to FIGS. 85A and 85B such thatreference to this end is also to be made to the preceding embodiments.

In another embodiment, the activation piece 72 can have a magneticinstallation 720 which is configured as a ferromagnetic armature and isattracted by the magnetic installations 22, 32 of the closure device 1.Unlocking in this case can take place mechanically, for example, as inthe exemplary embodiment according to FIGS. 85A, 85B.

In an exemplary embodiment illustrated in FIGS. 87 to 93A-93E, a firstclosure part 2 has a body 20 on which an adjustment part 21 is disposedso as to be adjustable along an activation direction B. The body 20forms an engagement opening 200 by way of which the closure part 2 alonga closing direction X can be brought to engage with the second closurepart 3 such that the closure parts 2, 3 are held in a locking manner toone another in a closing position (FIGS. 90A to 90E).

Two bar-shaped locking elements 23 are disposed on the closure part 2and to this end received in the receptacle openings 201 on end sides onboth sides of the body 20. The receptacle openings 201 are set so as tobe oblique to the closing direction X and herein configured as slotssuch that the locking elements 23 are adjustable in a plane that isdirected so as to be perpendicular to the direction of the longitudinalextent of the locking elements 23.

The locking elements 23 by way of the ends thereof protrude beyond thebody 20 on both sides. The adjustment part 21 has flanked portions 211which are connected to one another by way of an intermediate portion 210and on which activation elements 212 in the form of inward-projectingedges are formed, the adjustment part 21 by way of the latter engagingwith the ends of the locking elements 23. The locking elements 23 can beadjusted in the receptacle openings 201, in particular so as to move thelocking elements 23 along the receptacle openings 201 toward theoutside, by activating the adjustment part 21 relative to the body 20 ofthe closure part 2 in the activation direction B.

In order for the closure device 1 to be closed, the closure parts 2, 3can be placed against one another along the closing direction X, as canbe seen from FIGS. 89A to 89E. In the closing position illustrated inFIGS. 90A to 90E, the closure part 3 by way of an engagement element 31molded thereon engages in the engagement opening 200 of the body 20 ofthe closure part 2, wherein the locking elements 23 engage in engagementportions 310 in the form of depressions on both sides of the engagementelement 31, as can be seen from FIGS. 90D and 90E.

The closure parts 2, 3 have in each case a magnetic element 22, 32 whichinteract in a magnetically attracting manner such that the closing ofthe closure device 1 can take place under magnetic attraction and thusin a self-acting manner.

Moreover, the locking elements 23 are also magnetic and when closing theclosure direction 1, by virtue of the interaction with the magneticelement 32 of the closure part 3, are under load when engaging with theengagement portions 310 on the engagement element 31 of the closure part3.

In the exemplary embodiment illustrated, the engagement opening 200 onthe body 20 of the closure part 2 along a transverse direction Q iselongated in such a manner that the closure part 3 can be moved alongthe transverse direction Q in the engagement opening 200. The closuredevice 1 herein can be opened by moving along the transverse directionQ.

When the closure device 1 is not under load, thus in the absence ofloading forces between the closure parts 2, 3, opening thus takes placeas is illustrated in FIGS. 91A to 91E. In a transverse movement of theclosure part 3 in the engagement opening 200, the magnetic elements 22,32, configured by the permanent magnets, are moved transversely inrelation to one another and thus sheared off from one another. Areversal of the magnetic effect by virtue of the so-called edge effectarises herein, the latter arising when the magnetic elements 22, 32 havebeen moved out of congruence by a certain distance. By virtue of themagnetic effect being reversed from attraction to repulsion, theadjustment part 21 is moved in the activation direction B in relation tothe body 20 of the closure part 2, such that the locking elements 23 areadjusted in the receptacle openings 201 and adjusted toward the outside,as can be seen in FIGS. 91D and 91E. The locking mechanism is thuscanceled, and the closure parts 2, 3 can be removed from one another, ascan be seen from FIGS. 93A to 93E.

If the opening takes place under load, as is illustrated in FIGS. 92A to92E, the locking elements 23 by virtue of the interaction with theclosure parts 2, 3 are locked in a non-positive manner in the receptacleopenings 201 and cannot be readily adjusted in the receptacle openings201 by virtue of a frictional effect between the ramps 205, 311 whichare molded on the body 20 of the closure part 2, on the one hand, andthe engagement portions 310, on the other hand. The closure direction 1makes its way into the state according to FIGS. 91A to 91E only once theclosure device 1 is de-stressed, such that the adjustment part 21 byvirtue of the reversal of the magnetic effect is adjusted in aself-acting manner and the locking mechanism is thus released such thatthe closure parts 2, 3 can be removed from one another.

In an exemplary embodiment of a closure device 1 illustrated in FIGS.94A, 94B to 99A-99D, closure parts 2, 3 are to be disposed against oneanother along a closing direction X. An engagement opening 200 is moldedon a body 20 of the one closure part 2, into which engagement opening200 the other closure part 3 can be plugged by way of an engagementelement 31 so as to connect the closure parts 2, 3 to one another.

In the exemplary embodiment according to FIGS. 94A, 94B to 99A to 99D a(single) locking element 23 is received in receptacle openings 201 onwalls at the end sides of the body 20 of the closure part 2 andadjustable in the obliquely set receptacle openings 201 that areconfigured as slots. In a closing position, with closure parts 2, 3connected to one another, the locking element 23 engages in anengagement portion 310 in the form of a depression on the engagementelement 31 of the closure part 3 such that the closure parts 2, 3 arelocked to one another on account thereof.

A magnetic element 22, 32 in the form of a permanent magnet is in eachcase disposed on the closure parts 2, 3. Moreover, the locking element23 is configured so as to be magnetic and, when the closure part 3 isplugged in, is loaded by the magnetic element 32 of the closure part 32such that the locking element 23 is pulled so as to engage with theengagement portion 310.

In the exemplary embodiment illustrated, an adjustment part 21 isdisposed on the body 20 of the closure part 2 so as to be displaceablealong an activation direction B that is directed transversely to theclosing direction X. Moreover, a rocker element 26 is mounted so as tobe pivotable relative to the body 20 about a pivot axle 261, wherein therocker element 26 in relation to the adjustment part 21 is disposed suchthat the rocker element 26 is activated when the adjustment part 21 isdisplaced.

This is illustrated in the transition from FIGS. 95A-95D to FIGS.96A-96D. In a closing position (FIGS. 95A-95D), the closure parts 2, 3engage with one another and are locked to one another by way of thelocking element 23. The rocker element 26 is pivoted about the pivotaxle 261 thereof by activating the adjustment part 21 (FIGS. 96A-96D),in that the adjustment part 21 acts on a lever portion 260 of the rockerelement 26.

Activation portions 262 project from the pivot axle 261 of the rockerelement 26, said activation portions 262 being configured for acting onends of the locking element 23 that project relative to the body 20.When pivoting the rocker element 26, the locking element 23, as can beseen from FIGS. 96A-D, is correspondingly adjusted in the receptacleopenings 201 of the body 20 and, on account thereof, relocated towardthe outside such that the engagement between the locking element 23 andthe engagement portion 310 of the locking element 31 is canceled and theclosure parts 2, 3 are thus unlocked from one another.

The closure parts 2, 3 can thus be separated from one another, as can beseen from FIGS. 97A-97D. Because the magnetic attraction force betweenthe magnetic elements 22, 32 is also weakened by adjusting theadjustment part 21 on which the magnetic element 22 of the closure part2 is disposed, this results in very easy opening of the closure device1.

If the adjustment part 21 is reset, as can be seen from FIGS. 98A-98D,the rocker element 26 can also be reset. The locking element 23 hereincan also be adjusted in the receptacle openings 201 by virtue of amagnetic attraction to the magnetic element 22 on the adjustment part21.

The adjustment part 21 and the rocker element 26 can be spring-preloadedin the direction of a reset, such that the resetting according to FIGS.98A-98D takes place in a self-acting manner.

After the adjustment part 21 and the rocker element 26 have been reset,the closure parts 2, 3 can be connected to one another again, as can beseen from FIGS. 99A-99D. When the closure parts 2, 3 are placed againstone another, the locking element 23 herein is initially deflected in thereceptacle openings 201 on both sides of the body 20 of the closure part2, as can be seen from FIGS. 99C and 99D, until the locking element 23can engage with the engagement portion 310 of the locking element 31 ofthe closure part 3, and a locking mechanism between the closure parts 2,3 is thus established.

In an exemplary embodiment illustrated in FIGS. 100A, 100B to 105A-105D,the adjustment part 21, as opposed to the exemplary embodiment accordingto FIGS. 94A, 94B to 99A-99D is configured so as to be integral to andin one piece with the rocker element 26. The adjustment part 21 is thusable to be moved along a curved activation direction B, so as to bepivotable about the pivot axle 261 of the rocker element 26, in relationto the body 20 of the closure part 2, as this can be seen in thetransition from FIGS. 101A-101D and FIGS. 102A-102D.

The exemplary embodiment in functional terms is otherwise identical tothe exemplary embodiment according to FIGS. 94A, 94B to 99A-99D, suchthat reference is also to be made to the preceding embodiments.

As has been explained above, for example by means of FIGS. 8A-8C andFIGS. 9A-9C, the locking mechanism between the closure parts 2, 3 in theexemplary embodiments discussed above can be influenced by an angularposition of ramps 205, 311 on the body 20 of the closure part 2, on theone hand, and on the engagement portion 310 of the locking element 31 ofthe closure part 3, on the other hand.

As has been explained above, a connection which is substantially withoutplay (FIGS. 8A-8C) or a self-reinforcing connection which is secure evenunder load (FIGS. 9A-9D) can be achieved, depending on the angle betweenthe ramps 205, 311.

The above can also be combined, as is visualized in FIG. 106 and FIGS.107A, 107B to 109A, 109B.

Portions 205A-205C can thus be molded on the ramp 205 on the body 20 ofthe closure part 2, said portions 205A-205C differing from the ramp 311of the locking element 31 of the closure part 3 in terms of the angularorientation.

In the example illustrated in FIG. 106 as well as FIGS. 107A, 107B to109A, 109B, a portion 205C is molded on the ramp 205 on an internal end,said portion 205C in relation to the ramp 311 on the locking element 31of the closure part 3 being directed at an angle γ1 greater than zero,thus conjointly with the ramp 311 defining a wedge shape which widenstowards the outside. In the closing position of the closure parts 2, 3,the locking element 23 lies between the portion 205C of the ramp 205 andthe ramp 311, as can be seen from FIG. 106 in combination with FIGS.107A, 107B, such that the closure parts 2, 3 are held on one anothersubstantially without play.

In contrast, a portion 205B that adjoins the portion 205C is directed soas to be parallel to the ramp 311, and a portion 205A that adjoins theportion 205B has an angle γ2 which is smaller than zero in relation tothe ramp 311. The portion 205A conjointly with the ramp 311 thus forms awedge shape which tapers toward the outside, as can be seen from FIG.106.

With a load between the closure parts 2, 3 in the closing position, theclosure parts 2, 3 are loaded toward one another in the direction ofconverging of the ramps 205, 311. By virtue of the angle γ1 between theportion 205C and the ramp 311, an outwardly directed force thus acts onthe locking element 23 such that the locking element 23 in thereceptacle openings 201 under higher load is relocated toward theoutside, as can be seen in the transition from FIGS. 108A, 108B to FIGS.109A, 109B. The locking element 23 thus passes the portion 205B of theramp 205 and makes its way into the region of the portion 205A in which,by virtue of the angle γ2 between the portion 205A and the ramp 311, aself-reinforcement of the connection arises such that the closure parts2, 3 cannot be released from one another even under high load.

On account of the different portions 205A-205C being provided, aconnection without play between the closure parts 2, 3 is thus achievedon the one hand, as can be seen from FIGS. 106 and 107A, 107B. Underhigh load, the connection moreover acts in a self-reinforcing manner inthat the locking element 23 is jammed so as to be wedged between theportion 205A and the ramp 311.

Additionally or alternatively, portions of different orientations canalso be molded on the ramp 311 on the closure part 3.

The concept on which the proposed solution is based is not limited tothe exemplary embodiments discussed above but can also be implemented inother ways.

A closure device of the type described can be used in a very diversemanner.

A closure device can thus be used for connecting straps in order toprovide a two-point connection or else a multi-point connection (forconnecting more than two straps).

A closure device of the type described can moreover be used forconnecting an electronic apparatus to a superordinate functional group,for example in or on a vehicle, for example a motor vehicle or bicycle.For example, a mobile phone can be (releasably) established on adashboard of a motor vehicle or on a handlebar of a bicycle by way ofsuch a device.

The closure device can however also be used for connecting other itemsto one another, for example as a closure for a helmet, in particular asports helmet, for a bag, or for an item of clothing.

LIST OF REFERENCE SIGNS

1 Closure device

2 Closure part

20 Body

200 Engagement opening

201 Receptacle opening

202 Fastening portion

203 Leg

204 Guiding engagement

205 Ramp

206 Guiding opening

21 Adjustment part

210 Intermediate portion

211 Flank portion

212 Activation element

212A, 212B Portion

213 Effective element

214 Spring element

215 Connection portion

216 Deflection portion

217 Lateral wall

218 Handle element

22 Magnetic installation

23 Locking element

230 Portion

231 Tab

232 Contact face

24 Effective element

240 Spring element

241 Deflection portion

25 Electrical connector

250 Contact element

26 Rocker element

260 Lever portion

261 Pivot axle

262 Activation portion

3 Closure part

30 Base

300 Fastening portion

301 Guiding pin

302 Engagement cam

303 Engagement groove

304 Support portion

305 Activation portion

31 Engagement element

310 Engagement portion

311 Ramp

312 Contact face

32 Magnetic installation

33 Blocking piece

330 Blocking portion

34 Electrical connector

350 Contact element

36 Adjustment part

4 First functional group

40 Connection portion

41 Detent element

5 Second functional group

50 Connection portion

6 Electronic apparatus

7 Connecting functional group (shower curtain)

70 Rod element

71 Slide

72 Activation piece

720 Magnetic installation

73 Drape

74 Wall

α, β, γ1, γ2 Angle

B Activation direction

C Activation direction

D Effective direction

D1 a, D1 b, D2 Circle of rotation

E Activation direction

L Longitudinal direction

M1, M2 Center

Q Transverse direction

T Separating direction

X Closing direction

V Adjustment direction

1. A closure device having a first closure part comprising a body, and asecond closure part, said closure parts for closing the closure deviceare placeable against one another along a closing direction and in aclosing position being connected to one another; and at least onelocking element which is disposed so as to be adjustable on the body ofthe first closure part, and at least one engagement portion which ismolded on the second closure part, wherein the at least one lockingelement and the at least one engagement portion in a closing positionare mutually engaged in such a manner that the first closure part andthe second closure part are locked to one another, wherein the firstclosure part has a first magnetic installation and the second closurepart has a second magnetic installation, wherein the first magneticinstallation and the second magnetic installation when placing the firstclosure part and the second closure part against one another mutuallyinteract in a magnetically attracting manner, and the at least onelocking element is magnetically configured in such a manner that the atleast one locking element in the closing position by way of the firstmagnetic installation and/or the second magnetic installation is loadedin the direction of engaging with the at least one engagement portion.2. The closure device as claimed in claim 1, wherein one of the firstclosure part or the second closure part has an engagement opening, whilethe respective other of the first closure part or the second closurepart has an engagement element which in the closing position of theclosure device engages in the engagement opening.
 3. The closure deviceas claimed in claim 1, wherein the at least one locking element isdisposed on the first closure part so as to be adjustable in a linearmanner or pivotable in a plane defined by the closing direction and atransverse direction extending transversely to the closing direction. 4.The closure device as claimed in claim 3, wherein the at least onelocking element is received so as to be adjustable in a receptacleopening of the first closure part.
 5. The closure device as claimed inclaim 4, wherein the receptacle opening in relation to the closingdirection and in relation to the transverse direction extends obliquelyin such a manner that the at least one locking element in the receptacleopening is adjustable along an adjustment direction which extendsobliquely in relation to the closing direction and obliquely in relationto the transverse direction.
 6. The closure device as claimed in claim4, wherein the engagement portion has a first ramp which extendsobliquely in relation to the closing direction, extends in a rectilinearmanner, or is curved, and the first closure part in the region of thereceptacle opening has a second ramp which extends obliquely in relationto the closing direction, extends in a linear manner, or is curved,wherein the at least one locking element in the closing position isdisposed between the first ramp and the second ramp.
 7. The closuredevice as claimed in claim 6, the first ramp and the second ramp in theplane defined by the closing direction and the transverse direction aredisposed so as to be parallel to each other or at an angle of greaterthan zero or smaller than zero, and one of the ramps has a first portionwhich is at an angle of greater than zero in relation to the respectiveother ramp is disposed in the plane defined by the closing direction andthe transverse direction and a second portion which is at an angle ofsmaller than zero in relation to the respective other ramp is disposedin the plane defined by the closing direction and the transversedirection.
 8. (canceled)
 9. The closure device s claimed in claim 3,wherein the at least one locking element in longitudinal terms extendsperpendicularly to the plane defined by the closing direction and thetransverse direction, or at least in portions extends circumferentiallyabout the closing direction.
 10. The closure device as claimed in claim1, further comprising an adjustment part which is activatable in anactivation direction so as to bring the at least one locking element todisengage from the at least one engagement portion in order to releasethe first closure part and the second closure part from one another. 11.The closure device as claimed in claim 10, where in at least one of theactivation direction is directed so as to be transverse to the closingdirection or along the closing direction, the adjustment part isspring-loaded counter to the activation direction and toward a portionof the first closure part, and the first magnetic installation isdisposed on the adjustment part and is adjustable conjointly with theadjustment part.
 12. (canceled)
 13. (canceled)
 14. The closure device asclaimed in claim 10, wherein the first closure part has at least oneeffective element which in relation to the adjustment part s adjustablealong an effective direction, different from the activation directionand is operatively connected to the adjustment element in such a mannerthat adjusting the effective element in the effective direction causesthe adjustment part to be activated in the activation direction. 15.(canceled)
 16. The closure device as claimed in claim 10, wherein thefirst closure part has a rocker element which in relation to the body ofthe first closure part is pivotable about a pivot axle, and is moveableby the adjustment part so as to adjust the at least one locking element.17. (canceled)
 18. The closure device as claimed in claim 10, whereinthe second closure part is moveable transversely to the closingdirection on the first closure part and the adjustment part by movingthe second closure part relative to the first closure part isactivatable so as to bring the at least one locking element to disengagefrom the at least one engagement portion in order to release the firstclosure part and the second closure part from one another.
 19. Theclosure device as claimed in claim 1, wherein the second closure part ismoveable transversely to the closing direction on the first closurepart, and the at least one locking element is moveable from the closingposition by moving the second closure part relative to the first closurepart.
 20. The closure device as claimed in claim 1, wherein the secondclosure part has a base on which the at least one engagement portion isdisposed.
 21. (canceled)
 22. The closure device claimed in claim 20,wherein the second closure part has a blocking piece which is adjustablerelative to the base, wherein the blocking piece in a blocking positionblocks any movement of the at least one engagement portion in thedirection of disengaging of the at least one locking element, and isadjustable from the blocking position so as to release the at least oneengagement portion for an elastic movement.
 23. (canceled)
 24. Theclosure device as claimed in claim 1, wherein the first closure part hasat least a first electrical connector, and the first closure part and/orthe second closure part have/has at least a second electrical connector,wherein the first electrical connector and the second electricalconnector in the closing position are electrically connected to oneanother, but are electrically isolated from one another when the closureparts are separated.
 25. (canceled)
 26. (canceled)
 27. The closuredevice as claimed in claim 1, further comprising at least two secondclosure parts which have in each case at least one engagement portionand a second magnetic installation, and are conjointly placeable againstthe first closure part.
 28. A functional group having an electronicapparatus and a closure device as claimed in claim 1, wherein the firstclosure part or the second closure part of the closure device isconnected to the electronic apparatus.
 29. A closure system which has aplurality of closure devices as claimed in claim 1, wherein the firstclosure parts of the closure devices in a first functional group and thesecond closure parts of the closure devices in a second functional groupare connected to one another.
 30. The closure system as claimed in claim29, wherein the first closure parts have in each case one adjustmentpart which is activatable so as to bring the at least one lockingelement of the respectively assigned first closure part to disengagefrom the at least one engagement portion of the assigned second closurepart in order to release the first closure part and an assigned secondclosure part from one another, wherein the adjustment parts of the firstclosure parts are operatively connected to one another in such a mannerthat the adjustment parts are conjointly activatable.